brighton uk tourist attractions

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brighton, East Sussex

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited England in 2022 where he spent a month exploring its lovely southern coastline, including touring the seaside town of Brighton.

Brighton, the largest and best known seaside resort on the English Channel , stretches some five miles along the pebbled and sometimes steep chalk shoreline of the South Downs in East Sussex.

Once a fishing village with narrow, winding lanes, Brighton blossomed into an elegant vacation spot during the 18th-century, where England's elite relaxed in fashionable spas and hotels under the restorative influence of sea air.

Reminders of this period still abound. Charming Regency terraces; the delightful Palace Pier ; and the Royal Pavilion , the exotic summer home of George IV who was one of the country's most flamboyant and eccentric kings, are among the town's top tourist attractions.

Although Brighton's famous pebble beaches are now lined with souvenir shops and amusement arcades, it remains a culturally vibrant destination and one of the most popular places to visit in England — especially in summer. The town's busy calendar of events includes the popular Brighton Festival each spring, horse races in the summer, and the famous London to Brighton Veteran Car Run in November.

Brighton is also a great place for sports enthusiasts. Highlights include sailing, kitesurfing, and diving, as well as hiking and biking along the downs or across the many lovely green spaces, such as historic Stanmer Park just to the north of town.

For details of these and many other fun things to do in this popular seaside town, be sure to read our list of the top tourist attractions in Brighton, East Sussex.

See also: Where to Stay in Brighton

1. Royal Pavilion & Garden

2. brighton palace pier, 3. brighton promenade and seafront attractions, 4. the lanes and north laine, 5. british airways i360 viewing tower, 6. brighton beach, 7. brighton museum & art gallery, 8. regency-era architecture, 9. brighton festival, 10. brighton toy and model museum, 11. booth museum of natural history, 12. bluebell railway, 13. london to brighton veteran car run, 14. brighton racecourse, where to stay in brighton for sightseeing, brighton - climate chart.

The Royal Pavilion is difficult to miss. Located in the center of Brighton just steps from the sea, the building's extraordinary peaks and spires look as if they'd be more at home in India. That was certainly the intention of architect John Nash, who designed this summer palace for the Prince of Wales (later George IV) in the Indian Mogul style.

Best seen via guided tour, highlights of the building include the Banqueting Room, with its lovely Asian décor, and the Royal Bedrooms. The tent-like Music Room is also worth seeing. Audio guides are available.

For a real treat, partake in a traditional afternoon tea in the Royal Pavilion Tearoom. Be sure to also allocate some time to explore the delightful Royal Pavilion Gardens. Free to visit, they can be explored by following the gently winding garden pathways, or you can simply stake your place on the lawns or a park bench.

Address: 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk

No trip to the seaside would be complete without a visit to a pier. With their fun amusement arcades, joke shops, and fish-and-chip stands, spending time at a seaside pier has been a tradition among visitors to the seaside since Victorian times..

Thanks to its decorative ironwork and majestic setting, Brighton's Victorian-era Palace Pier is undoubtedly one of the country's most attractive such landmarks. Jutting out to sea like the upper deck of a steamship on spindly iron legs, Palace Pier is the sole survivor of the town's three original piers (one was destroyed by a storm, while another stands derelict near the town's seafront).

Built in 1891 and stretching some 1,700 feet from shore, it has lost none of its appeal. In addition to its dining and shopping, the pier also boasts other fun things to do, including state-of-the-art thrill rides and game arcades.

Address: Madeira Drive, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: http://brightonpier.co.uk/

There's no end of fun things to do and places to visit near Brighton's Palace Pier, too. Many of them are just a short stroll away, along the promenade, and can easily be combined with a visit to the pier or other major Brighton attractions.

A fun diversion for those traveling with kids is Volk's Electric Railway . Built in 1833 and the oldest operating electric railway in the world, this narrow gauge line runs along the seafront from the pier, with three stations from which to catch the train.

At 1.25 miles in length, a ride can also save a fair bit of walking between attractions. Along the way, you'll pass the Brighton Fishing Museum , with its interesting exhibits relating to the town's origins and its long history as a fishing town.

The railway also connects to Brighton Marina , via the Black Rock station. Be sure to allocate some time to explore the marina, which offers great shopping and dining experiences.

Aquarium station is where you'll want to disembark for SEA LIFE Brighton . Established in 1872 as Brighton Aquarium, this modernized attraction is now home to more than 100 species of sea life.

Address: Visitor Centre, Madeira Drive, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: https://volksrailway.org.uk

The center of the old fishing village of Brighthelmstone , as Brighton was once called, stood on the site of the bustling narrow alleyways known as The Lanes. The charming little 17th-century cottages, with their colorful wooden façades are now antique shops, boutiques, galleries, and cafés.

To the east of The Lanes is Old Steine , a former village green. It is now a well-tended square extending to Grand Parade, a magnificent boulevard lined with trees and planted with flowers.

Also worth visiting is North Laine . This arts-inspired shopping area boasts an eclectic mix of boutique shops and antique stores, galleries, and cafés, as well as entertainment venues.

Address: Meeting House Lane, Brighton, East Sussex

Undoubtedly one of the most impressive attractions on England's south coast, the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower is a must-do on any Brighton itinerary. Replacing the Brighton Wheel as the town's tallest structure (the wheel has since been dismantled), this 531-foot-tall seafront tower opened in 2016 to great fanfare as the world's first vertical cable car and tallest moving observation tower.

Resembling a huge needle and referred to as a "vertical pier", the structure's circular observation platform can lift up to 200 people to heights of 453 feet for a spectacular view of the surrounding area and over the English Channel. Other features include a tearoom and gift shop.

For a real treat, check into the availability of the attraction's food and drink options and time your visit for one of their regular special events.

Address: Lower Kings Road, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: http://britishairwaysi360.com/

If you're traveling to Brighton by train from London and wondering where the beach is, just follow the crowds. Odds are, they're also making their way to Brighton Beach, one of the top spots for swimming, sunbathing, and water-based activities on England's south coast.

Lined by a wide and extremely long promenade, Brighton Beach centers around the historic Parade Pier and is almost always busy during the warmer months of the year.

Also known as Central Beach , it's almost entirely made up of pebbles (or shingle), although some sand is revealed for a short period during low tide. Once you've claimed your spot, and so long as you've brought a towel to lay on, you'll find the beach experience here is as good as any other in Britain.

Lifeguard services are provided during peak months, and change facilities and washrooms are available for the public to use. Also available are volleyball and basketball courts, a large children's play area with splash pool, and rentals of equipment such as kayaks, paddleboards, and Jet Skis.

In addition to the many attractions overlooking Brighton Beach, you'll find plenty of good food and beverage opportunities, too.

Address: Brighton Seafront Office, 141, Kings Road Arches, Brighton, East Sussex

Read More: Best Beaches in Brighton, East Sussex

Located in the Royal Pavilion's former Royal Stables and Riding School is the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery . This first-rate museum is worth visiting for its impressive collection of Art Deco pieces, its costume gallery with fashions from the 18th century, and the excellent Willett Collection of porcelain and ceramics.

There's even a good (albeit small) Egyptian Gallery that's worth a visit. A gift shop is located on the premises.

Address: Royal Pavilion Gardens, Pavilion Parade, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/brighton-museum-art-gallery/

Strolling through Brighton's residential areas, with their lovely Regency-style terraces and squares, is a popular pastime. West of the town center, heading towards Hove, are street after street of old homes, with round bay windows and iron balconies.

The best examples are at Regency Square, Brunswick Terrace, Brunswick Square, and the horseshoe-shaped Adelaide Crescent. Sussex Square, Lewes Crescent, and Arundel Terrace, all east of the town center, are also worth seeing. Another fine local example of historic architecture, Preston Manor is open to the public and perfectly captures life at the turn of the century.

You can also find some good examples of Regency-era architecture close to the town center and its major tourist attractions. Visit The Lanes for examples of townhomes that also include shopfronts on the lower levels, and a sightseeing walk along the seafront facing Kings Road or Marine Parade will reveal numerous hotels and inns from this era.

Address: Preston Drove, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/prestonmanor/

The annual three-week Brighton Festival runs from early to late May and attracts artists from around the world for performances ranging from orchestral and church concerts to jazz and comedy shows. Film screenings and recitals are also among the 400 or so events offered in this diversified festival.

Although the repertoire is varied, 19th-century music predominates. Venues include the Royal Pavilion, the Brighton Dome , the Theatre Royal, and local churches.

Address: 21-22 Old Steine, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: http://brightonfestival.org/

The Brighton Toy and Model Museum, tucked away underneath the town's train station, contains a vast array of vintage, rare, and unique toys from Britain and Europe. Highlights of the museum's vast collection include antique model trains by Hornby; stuffed bears by Steiff; die-cast cars by Corgi; and all sorts of dolls, toy soldiers, farmyards, circuses, planes, and puppets.

Other collections of note include numerous toy buses, construction sets, boats, stuffed animals, zoos, and character play sets. Particularly fun is a unique train set featuring local tourist attractions.

The museum shop and foyer is also home to a useful Visitor Information Point, offering maps and literature relating to local events in Brighton.

Hot Tip : Try to plan your visit to coincide with one of the museum's special "Running Days" when you'll get to see much rarer toy trains in action.

Address: 52-55 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: http://brightontoymuseum.co.uk/

Another Brighton attraction that's certainly worthy of a visit is the Booth Museum of Natural History . It's notable for being home to one of Britain's largest collections of stuffed birds. Other highlights include a large collection of insects, fossils, and skeletons.

Founded in 1874, the museum is also home to the (in)famous "Merman," a Victorian-era hoax creature that many people at the time believed to be real. Be sure to check out the fascinating audio-visual displays that recount the exploits of the museum's "Victorian gentleman" founder, Edward Booth.

Address: 194 Dyke Road, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/booth/

Just a few miles from Brighton, the Bluebell Railway is a fascinating piece of Britain's engineering heritage. Running some 11 miles along the border between East and West Sussex, this fully functional railway operates between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead. From here, you can catch a connecting train to London or Brighton.

Famous as the first preserved steam passenger railway in the world to operate a public service, the railway's collection includes 30 vintage engines and almost 150 carriages and wagons, most of them pre-1939.

Special themed train rides are offered, including fine dining, murder mystery nights, and Thomas the Tank Engine excursions for the kids. For a special treat, book an afternoon tea experience, served aboard one of the attraction's historic dining cars.

Location: Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex

Official site: www.bluebell-railway.co.uk

While not quite Wacky Races , the Royal Automobile Club's annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is probably the largest collection of unusual looking vehicles you're ever likely to see. The world's longest running motoring celebration has been held almost every November since 1927 and attracts entrants from around the globe.

Typically, some 500 pre-1905 cars attempt the trip, their drivers eager to test their vintage vehicles on the historic 60-mile run from Hyde Park in London to Brighton's seafront. The event's a huge draw for the throngs of spectators and tourists who line the route to cheer these often slow-moving machines onward to the finish line.

Address: Finish Line, Madeira Drive, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: www.veterancarrun.com

Set high up on the Sussex Downs , the stunning views of Brighton and the English Channel from Brighton Racecourse provide a unique background to the races held here throughout the spring, summer, and fall. It is regarded as one of the most intimate racecourses in the country, with horses crossing the line no more than a few feet from the crowd.

Horseracing fans can enjoy a great day's outing here at one of the country's oldest courses (1783). A restaurant and snack options are available on-site. For those wanting to bring their own food, a picnic area is also available.

Address: Freshfield Road, Brighton, East Sussex

Official site: www.brighton-racecourse.co.uk

We recommend these unique hotels in Brighton near town and the seafront:

• Hotel Una : Located in Regency square, this boutique luxury hotel features eclectic décor in its funky uniquely styled rooms. Perks include a great breakfast in bed, plus a massage room.
• Blanch House : This mid-range boutique hotel features themed rooms with comfortable beds. Homemade cookies are provided as a much- welcome treat.
• Artist Residence Brighton : Along with its affordable rates, this budget-friendly hotel features great sea views, creative décor, and comfy beds. A ping pong room is available for guest use.
• Premier Inn Brighton City Centre Hotel : This budget hotel is a great choice for its central location, and features spacious family rooms.

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The 25 best things to do in Brighton right now

Get the lowdown on the best things to do in Brighton with our complete guide to Britain's hippest seaside town

We might be biased, but Brighton  is a day-trip destination like no other . It has the perfect mix of an old-school, nostalgia pier (yep, there’s an arcade), and vibrant, winding shopping streets, full of seriously trendy veggie and vegan cafés and long-standing markets for thrifting, so there ’ s plenty to explore, whether the sun is out or not. 

Oh, and there’s the beach. And don ’t mind the pebbles – the seafront is l ined with ice-cream shops, bustling beach bars, and now the long-awaited Sea Lanes (opened in June 2023), you can spend whole days here sipping tinnies and tucking into fish and chips. Just beware of the seagulls. From feminist bookshops to indie galleries, cultural attractions to stunning walks, here are the best things to do in Brighton right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍝The best restaurants in Brighton ☕The best coffee shops in Brighton 🐟The best places for fish and chips in Brighton 🍺The best pubs in Brighton

This guide was recently updated by Liv Kelly , a writer from Brighton. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

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Best things to do in Brighton

1.  Explore Brighton Palace Pier

• Things to do

What is it?   Brighton’s Grade-II listed pleasure pier (which is considered the finest ever built) with fairground rides, bars and restaurants stretching out into the sea. 

Why go?   The 525 metre platform of sweet treats, games, rides all surrounded by sea is undeniably iconic. It’s withstood storms, wars, and has even been renamed a couple of times, but it continues to stand proud as one of Brighton’s most recognised and postcard-worthy attractions.

2.  Wander through The Lanes

What is it?  Brighton’s artiest district, which is packed with independent shops, restaurants and traditional pubs. 

Why go? There’s a reason why these higgledy-piggledy alleys and avenues are one of the city’s biggest draws, for locals and tourists alike. The shabby, colourful North Laine is the place to head for cracking coffee, pastries and incredible second-hand shopping, whereas the more tranquil, historical Lanes (to the south) are home to lovely restaurants, bars and artsy little boutiques.  

3.  Marvel at the grand Royal Pavilion

What is it?  A rather fantastical-looking palace in the middle of town. 

Why go?  The Royal Pavilion is unsurprisingly Brighton’s most popular tourist attraction – just look at it – and while the opulent domes and minarets stand boldly apart from its surrounding buildings, doesn’t it seem familiar? John Nash, the architect who was in charge of the building’s final extension, was inspired by Indo-Islamic architecture, like that of the Taj Mahal. It’s a remarkable mish-mash of artistic and architectural inspiration. 

Don’t miss:  A secret tunnel in the building links the Pavilion to Brighton Dome (once King George’s riding stable). While you can’t see it on the standard tour, special tours of the tunnel and basement run on selected dates. 

4.  Take a dip at The Sea Lanes

What is it?: Once a derelict brownfield site, now the UK’s first open-water swimming centre, complete with cafés, bars, and a sauna. Sea Lanes opened in June 2023, with the aim of bringing swimming provisions to the city (and utilising a previously derelict site).

Why go?  Firstly, it’s heated. Second of all the Sea Lanes doesn’t just provide a place to swim but is also home to a number of local fitness well-being, food, and beverage businesses. Funded by local Brighton businesses, the site is made up of 23 carbon-neutral units, reminiscent of shipping containers. Whilst offering a pay-as-you-swim service, the site’s 21st-century design is juxtaposed by its proximity to the 19th-century Madeira Drive, combining the two worlds. 

5.  Get to know Brighton’s queer history on an LGBTQ+ walking tour

What is it? Discover queer landmarks and history in what’s arguably the UK’s LGBTQ+ capital. 

Why go? Rainbow flags fly proudly in Brighton, which many consider the UK’s LGBTQ+ capital. If you’ve ever wondered how Brighton became the town it is today, a walking tour from a local expert is a pretty good place to start. Walks take you through 200 years of history to chart the progress from bravery and achievement, in very different times to the more progressive attitudes of today. Plus, you’ll get to see some of Brighton’s best sights, from the grandeur of the seafront through The Lanes to the ‘gay village’ of Kemptown.

6.  Stroll along the Undercliff Path

What is it?  A path that follows the shoreline from Brighton Marina to the village of Saltdean.

Why go?  Found just beyond Brighton Marina, the Undercliff Path  sits beneath the chalk cliffs which line the coast east of the city towards Eastbourne. It takes around half an hour to cycle from the Palace Pier to Saltdean. Brighton’s city-wide BTN BikeShare scheme means it’s easy and cheap to get out here on two wheels.

7.  Discover fascinating ocean creatures at Sea Life Brighton

What is it? The  Sea Life centre in Brighton is in the world’s oldest operating aquarium.

Why go?  It’s hard not to be taken aback by the striking original Gothic arches as you enter this building, which dates back to 1872. We particularly like the Lagoon, populated with beautiful stingrays, and the interactive rock pool where you can touch a starfish or sea anemone. 

Don’t miss: The aquarium’s latest attraction,  ‘ Day and Night’, lets visitors experience a coral reef as it moves through the day into night, thanks to £2.7 million refurbishment. 

8.  Take in immense sea views from the British Airways i360

What is it? A futuristic viewing platform on the seafront. 

Why go?  Sure, the i360 might not be the most aesthetically pleasing structure, but the views from this 150-metre-high observation tower are pretty impressive. Here you can gawp at pretty much all of Brighton, out across the South Downs and over the Channel – including, on a clear day, the Isle of Wight.

9.  Get your caffeine fix at one of Brighton’s amazing coffee shops

What is it? Brighton’s coffee scene  is arguably the best in the UK.

Why go?  Brightonians spend more on coffee per head than any other city in the UK. With owners who spend time researching and tasting the best beans, you won’t struggle to find a caffeine fix here.

Don’t miss:  Local chains Small Batch and Wolfox can be found throughout the city, but for the best coffee head to Stoney Point.

10.  Explore the city’s independent bookshops

What is it?: An array of independent bookshops and sellers upholding the voices of marginalised authors.

Why go?: These bookshops don't just uphold the voices of marginalised voices in the publishing industry, they've also helped to create a community in Brighton. Whether you want to diversify your bookshelf or find something completely new, you're  guaranteed to find your fave new book here (and yes, they sell tote bags). 

Don’t miss:  The Feminist Bookshop and Vegan Cafe on Upper North Street to find some of the best female, non-binary, and marginalised voices out there or walk down North Road and visit the winner of British Bookseller of the Year, Afrori Books which offers one of the biggest selection of books by black authors. The two also join forces in June to hold the Brighton Book Festival.  

11.  Marvel at starling murmurations over the piers

What is it?  A nightly natural wonder that takes place on the seafront throughout winter.

Why go? From late October until March t housands of starlings gather each night just before sunset to swoop and swirl in a magical dance before settling into their roosts beneath the burnt-out West Pier and the iconic Palace Pier. The spectacle makes for incredible viewing: these are the best times to catch them. 

Don’t miss  Head to the Palace Pier for close-up views of the birds in action.

12.  Hike around Devil’s Dyke

What is it?  A timeless beauty spot on the sprawling South Downs.

Why go? Just a few miles out of town, the largest ’dry valley’ in the UK makes the perfect location for a dog walk or simply an aimless ramble as the sun sets. The Dyke has been a major tourist draw since the nineteenth century, and it’s very easy to see why.

Don’t miss:  Saddlescombe Farm, just a short hike away, is National Trust-managed farm hamlet with historic exhibits and a charming alfresco tearoom. 

13.  Catch the coolest new bands at Brighton’s best venues

What is it?  Check out the coolest new bands at one of the city’s ace independent venues.

Why go?  Brighton is known for giving new artists a leg-up thanks to its numerous small venues. Whether you want to see unsigned bands take to the stage at The Hope and Ruin or Green Door Store, or take in a show from hotly tipped acts at Chalk or Concorde 2 , you won’t be disappointed if new music is your thing.

14.  Go on a record shopping spree

What is it?  A string of amazing record stores selling the best in new music and classic LPs.

Why go?  Brighton has been at the forefront of the recent vinyl renaissance thanks to its brilliant record shops. Whether you want cheap second-hand treasures or the latest heavyweight releases, you’ll have no trouble finding what you’re after.

Don’t miss New record shop on the scene Capsule Records , which opened in 2023: an indie vinyl shop which doubles up as a café, where you can even try the tunes before you buy (via a QR code Spotify link). 

15.  Explore Castle Hill and the lost village of Balsdean

What is it?  A protected nature reserve and abandoned village deep in the South Downs .

Why go?  A short bus ride away, Castle Hill is home to a number of rare butterfly species. Criss-crossed by paths, it’s easy to take a circular route around this hidden part of the South Downs. At the bottom of this deep valley sits Balsdean, a hamlet that was appropriated by the Ministry of Defence for firing practice during the Second World War.

16.  Take a ride on the Volks Electric Railway

What is it?  The oldest operational electric railway in the world

Why go?  Running from the Palace Pier to Black Rock, the Volks Electric Railway is a narrow gauge service that delights tourists and young families alike. Opened by Magnus Volk in 1883, its small carriages run along the coast with views out to sea, passing through banks of wildflowers that are often covered with butterflies in summer.

17.  Browse bric-à-brac in Snoopers Paradise

What is it? A huge, eclectic flea market in Kensington Gardens. 

Why go? If you’re after some antique knick-knacks to decorate your room, look no further. Enter through the old-school turnstile of this gigantic emporium and you’ll find two floors positively overflowing with vintage treasure. Each stall inside Snoopers Paradise is independently owned. And good thing – more diversity the better.

Don’t miss: After you’ve bought a quirky hat, jump in the black-and-white photo booth to snap a keepsake.

18.  Get your culture fix at Brighton Dome

What is it? Another big performance venue, the Dome is the Brighton Centre’s slightly more refined sibling.

Why go?  Expect a programme of classical music, dance, theatre and poetry. It’s actually three venues (Concert Hall, Corn Exchange, Studio Theatre) – so you’ve plenty to choose from.

19.  Fill your bags with indie treats at the Open Market

What is it? A vibrant covered market filled with independent shops, street food and artists’ studios. 

Why go? Soggy out? The Open Market is where to head when it’s sheeting it down. This undercover market packs independent boutiques, artists’ studios and traditional market stalls all under one roof. Shop local and pick up some fresh nosh or grab a book from the dinky bookshop.

Don’t miss: Once your bags are bursting, snuggle up with a coffee from the Flying Saucer Café .

20.  See world treasures at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

What is it? An excellent museum and gallery in the city’s cultural quarter.

Why go? Part of the Royal Pavilion, this city-centre museum and gallery is free for locals, while visitors are charged £9. And that’s good value, given the treasures on show – from fine art and ancient Egyptian treasure.

Don’t miss: If insects are your thing, make a beeline for the Natural Sciences collection, where you can meet half a million of the little critters.

21.  Catch a big-name gig at Brighton Centre

What is it? A seafront exhibition centre and performance venue that’s  the place to go in Brighton for big-name comedy, music and theatre.

Why go? Many of the UK’s highest-profile tours head to the Brighton Centre , presumably undeterred by the venue’s history of hosting final gigs – both Bing Crosby and The Jam performed their last concerts here.

22.  Bring out your inner big kid at Brighton Toy and Model Museum

What is it? A wonderfully kitsch homage to the last 100 years of toys and models. 

Why go? Because who doesn’t enjoy a hit of childhood nostalgia? There are more than 10,000 items on display at this museum  – everything from Dinky cars and Meccano kits to vintage penny arcade games, puppet theatres and one of the country’s biggest collections of model railways, including a 1930s three-rail O-gauge layout (which is apparently pretty rare).

23.  Play Pac Man with a beer in hand at The World’s End

What is it? The city has an excellent roster of pubs , but  this one  is filled with arcade games and even its own escape room. 

Why go? What’s better than arcade games? Drinking while you play them! With its own escape room, a remote-control racetrack and a whole lot of VR booths where you can kill some aliens (or play one of several other games), this pub really is the epitome of a good time. Did we mention you can play Pac-Man here, too? Hell yeah.

24.  Sing-along to the jukebox at Shuffle

What is it? At cocktail bar Shuffle , the retro jukebox is given a truly modern twist.

Why go? Here tipplers can play selector via their phones. So whack on your faves and host an impromptu karaoke – sing-alongs are highly encouraged.

Don’t miss: From Monday to Wednesday, you can get your hands on two-for-one cocktails. Take a look at the best bars in Brighton . 

25.  Visit Hove Museum & Art Gallery

What is it?: Though technically in Hove, Hove Museum & Art Gallery (also known as the Hove Museum of Creativity) sits within a gorgeous Victorian Villa, originally known as Brooker Hall, on New Church Road. 

Why go?: Though it has various activities related to its seasonal exhibitions, guests can visit the gallery for its display celebrating Hove’s history as a hub for early 19th-century filmmakers. Showcasing some of the earliest recordings in the UK created by pioneers who put Brighton and Hove on the map, it’s a fascinating analysis of how the technology evolved from the tertiary practice of a dedicated few to one of the main forms of entertainment today. Oh, and it's free. 

Don’t miss: Explore The Wizard’s Attic to see the evolution of children’s toys from the 18th century to the present day. It’s fascinating, if a little bit creepy. 

More great things to do in Brighton

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15 of the best things to do in Brighton

Apr 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Brighton Pier is one of the city's most iconic attractions © Olivier DJIANN / Getty Images

An inimitable blend of cool and kitsch, Brighton is one of the UK's most quirky, vibrant and welcoming cities.

The perfect combination of lively urban life and laid-back beach vibes, Brighton has a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, scores of independent stores and coffee shops, and a beloved seafront that draws beachgoers from across the southeast of England and beyond. 

Here are just some of the top things to do in this hedonistic seaside city.

1. Hit the beach

No trip to Brighton would be complete without spending some time on its famous pebbly beach. Have a go at water sports including stand-up paddleboarding and windsurfing, or simply relax in the sunshine. On warm weekends and holidays, Brighton beach attracts sizable crowds from London and other inland locations, so if you'd rather avoid the masses, visit on a weekday or head further along the coast to find a quieter spot. Winter is a lovely time to stroll along the seafront – the beach is virtually empty, and the sunset colors add plenty of atmosphere.

Read more: The top 10 beaches in England

2. Marvel at the splendor of the Royal Pavilion

Brighton's most iconic landmark is the extravagant Royal Pavilion , which was once the seaside palace of King George IV. It's an opulent mix of Indian architecture and Regency grandeur, with ornate roof domes and towering spires that dominate the landscape. Meanwhile, the interior is a jaw-dropping display of chinoiserie style, with resplendent bedrooms, gilded banquet halls and a dragon-adorned music room. The pavilion is well worth a visit for a peek into Brighton's decadent past – if you want to find out more about the city's history and culture, combine it with a trip to the adjoining Brighton Museum & Art Gallery .

3. Feel the nostalgia at Brighton Pier

One of the bigger attractions on the seafront is Brighton Palace Pier, commonly known as  Brighton Pier , a city landmark that dates back to the Victorian era. The 525m-long (1722ft) structure is packed with classic fairground rides, including a gaudy carousel, spooky haunted house, dodgems and a helter-skelter. Inside, you can immerse yourself in the non-stop noise and flashing lights of the games arcade, with everything from old-school 2p pusher machines to modern VR simulators. If your stomach can take it after a ride on a rollercoaster, nibble on a crunchy stick of Brighton Rock for a traditional sugary treat.

4. Start your day with locally roasted coffee

Brighton is one of the UK's most coffee-obsessed cities, and there is a wealth of independent coffee shops where you can get your caffeine fix crafted from locally roasted beans. Stoney Point has long been a favorite with locals, and Wolfox now has several stylish yet homely branches in the city – don't miss the deliciously fluffy "Mr Fox" pancakes. Alternatively, you can people-watch at Pelicano or escape the tourist crowds at Tilt in the north of the city.

5. Get lost in The Lanes

Brighton's legendary Lanes are laden with character, and you can easily while away an afternoon exploring these twisting alleyways and narrow streets. You'll find all sorts of artistic independent shops, galleries and cafes in the historic buildings here. From antiques and jewelry to books and vinyl records, these colorful stores have something for everyone. The area gets busy, so avoid visiting on the weekend if you want some breathing room.

6. Shop at boutique stores in North Laine

A short walk north from The Lanes lies, predictably, North Laine. Less than half a square mile in size, it's home to the largest collection of independent retailers on the UK's south coast. You'll find an eclectic mix of vintage fashion boutiques, bakeries, jewelry stores and gift shops to explore. Stop by Dave's Comics to browse graphic novels and games, or the renowned Snoopers Paradise flea market to rummage through everything from homeware to books and antiques.

7. Try local craft beer

Brighton's bar scene is second to none, with more pubs than you could possibly hope to visit in one trip. From the rooftop garden of The Mesmerist to the cave-like interior of the beachside Tempest Inn , there's a unique drinking establishment to suit everyone. The city also boasts some of the best LGBTQIA+ bars in the country, mostly located around St James' St in the Kemptown area – don't miss the "Piers & Queers" walking tour if you want to find out more about Brighton's history from an LGBTQIA+ perspective. Whichever pubs you choose to frequent, be sure to sample some locally brewed craft beer from breweries such as Brighton Bier while you're here.

8. Tuck into fish and chips 

Indulging in a box of fish and chips is a quintessential part of the British seaside experience, and there's no shortage of restaurants and chippies in Brighton where you can get your fill. Award-winning Bardsley's is one of the best, while The Regency has gorgeous sea views as you eat. If the weather's good, get yours to take away and enjoy eating on the beach the traditional way – but watch out for hungry seagulls! Don't eat fish? All-vegan No Catch has got you covered. Try their signature "tofish" and tempura "prawns." 

9. Change your perception of vegan food

Vegan fish and chips is far from the only option on the menu for plant-based visitors to Brighton. In fact, the city is one of the most veggie-friendly in the country, so you'll be spoiled for choice. Head to Food for Friends for an innovative seasonal menu, Terre à Terre to indulge in a vegan version of a traditional English afternoon tea, or The Roundhill for an epic plant-based Sunday roast that was voted the best in Brighton – beating its many meaty rivals. For dessert, drop by Boho Gelato for creamy vegan ice cream to enjoy on the seafront.

10. Catch a live show

Brighton is packed with venues for live music, comedy and theater. The Brighton Centre hosts some of the biggest names, but countless pubs – including the Hope & Ruin and The Brunswick – put on live shows multiple nights a week. If classical music is more your scene, check out the listings for the Brighton Dome , which sees the likes of the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra grace the stage.

11. Admire the view from the i360

It might not be the most visually appealing attraction in Brighton, but the British Airways i360 tower does offer stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The glass-walled pod rises 137m (450ft) into the air, from where you can gaze out over the South Downs and, on clear days, even see all the way across the sea to the Isle of Wight. Admire the sights with a glass in hand from the Sky Bar, or get your adrenaline pumping by signing up for the Tower Top Climb.

12. Spend an afternoon at Brighton Marina

To the east of the city lies the quayside Brighton Marina , a hub of shops and entertainment. If you don't fancy the walk, you can reach it in the summer via the historic Volks Electric Railway , which dates back to 1883 and is the oldest electric railway in Britain. In addition to brand-name shops, a cinema and a bowling alley, it houses the trippy UV-crazy golf facility Globalls, which is perfect for a rainy day. Another hot spot for shopping in Brighton is the Churchill Square shopping center, with around 80 high street stores.

13. Challenge yourself at an escape room

Brighton is a city that doesn't take itself too seriously, so it's a great place to indulge your playful side. Pier Pressure has a series of fun-filled escape rooms with storylines based around local landmarks like the Royal Pavilion and The Lanes, while Bewilderbox's two sci-fi-esque rooms have guest voice appearances, including Norman Lovett, who played Holly in the cult UK TV show Red Dwarf. For a more traditional gaming experience, check out beachside video and board game bar Loading or arcade pub The World's End .

14. Gaze out at West Pier

When wandering along the seafront, you can't help but notice Brighton's other pier stranded out at sea. West Pier is now just a shadowy skeleton of its former self, having been ravaged by both storms and fires over the years. It might not sound like much of an attraction, yet it's a hauntingly beautiful sight and makes for a great atmospheric photograph – especially during the winter months, when thousands of starlings swirl and dance in the skies above it.

Read more:   Seaside snaps: how to take brilliant beach photographs

15. Go for a hike

Thanks to its location next to the South Downs National Park, Brighton has plenty of epic hiking routes within easy reach. So pack a picnic and head out to the dry valley of Devil's Dyke, grassy slopes of Ditchling Beacon, or pretty woodland of Stanmer Park. There are paths suitable for all fitness levels, with fresh air and picturesque views of the English countryside just a short hop from the city.

Keep planning your trip:

Heading to England in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit Navigate like a local with these tips for getting around England Discover the best time to go to England

This article was first published Mar 27, 2022 and updated Apr 5, 2024.

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Why we love Brighton

Quirky and cool, Brighton may seem like a typical British seaside resort, but delve below the surface and you’ll discover so much more. Enjoy vintage shopping, art shows, diverse cuisine, healthy and   sustainable restaurants at the forefront, with plenty of pubs for a cheeky afternoon tipple. Explore the Victorian history and modern-day delights of Brighton Palace Pier, search the boho boutiques of its quaint shopping street, The Lanes, or experience a bird’s eye perspective of the coastline from 450ft above the ground, on Brighton i360.

Dig into freshly cooked fish and chips on the sea front, or get back to nature amongst the white cliffs and ancient woodlands of the South Downs National Park. From wildlife to seaside charm, Brighton truly rocks!

Hit new heights

Venture up high into Brighton’s sky on the  Brighton i360 tower, offering dramatic views of the coastline and the South Downs. Head up higher on a Tower Top Climb right to the summit and secret open-air platform.

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Shop ’til you drop

Shop ’til you drop at the quirky shops inside Brighton’s Lanes . Nestled between North Laine and the seafront, this retail labyrinth is a joy to explore – with eclectic boutiques, sought-after jewellers and art-filled cafés galore.  

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A foodie’s dream

Bursting with flavour, Brighton comes alive with its indy food and local produce. Head out onto the streets of the city to discover the tastes that make up its fashionable food and drink scene.

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Located right on Brighton Beach, the Beach Box Spa has three wood-fired saunas feel wonderfully wild. As well as freshwater showers and a cool plunge pool, indulgent extras include herbal masks, salt scrubs and aromatherapy oils. And the sea is just a few steps away!  

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Pump up the adrenaline

Look no further than Brighton for an adrenaline fuelled journey along the coastline on the ride of your life. Jump on a jet ski and see the city sights, pebbled shoreline and iconic pier from the water.

Things to do in Brighton

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Royal Pavilion

Visit this 19th-century seaside ‘pleasure palace’ in the heart of Brighton to discover its colourful history.

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The Lanes, Brighton & Hove

Shop ’til you drop at the quirky shops and boutiques inside Brighton’s Lanes.

Brighton i360

Take flight on the world’s tallest moving observation tower, with 360-degree views of the city and coast.

Brighton and Hove Pride

Bold, brash and oh-so proud: the Brighton and Hove Pride is the party of the year.

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Brighton Beach

Grab a deckchair and soak up the sea air – and stunning views – at Brighton’s beachfront.

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Brighton Zip

Whizz along Brighton’s beach on this 300m (984ft) zipline – the longest one on the South Coast.

Lauren Mabbett Brighton Zip

What could be cooler than gliding along Brighton’s breezy beachfront on your roller blades?

Skate Fresh

Lagoon Watersports

Peaceful Hove Lagoon is perfect for paddleboarding – or switch it up with a wakeboarding lesson.

Cocktails, mini golf and…dinosaurs? With its UV lights and wacky games, this nightspot is one-of-a-kind.

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Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

A celebration of all-things Brighton, alongside artefacts and artworks from around the world.

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Brighton Dome

This eclectic entertainment venue hosts stand-up-comedy, circus shows, classical ballet and more.

Enter Gallery Brighton Tours

Local graffiti artist REQ presents a walking tour of Brighton’s most colourful hidden corners.

Brighton Open Market

Over 50 years old, Brighton Open Market is thriving with fashion, food and craft stalls, alongside special events.

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Proud Cabaret

Dine with a difference at this dazzling venue, or catch its legendary drag and burlesque brunches.

With top-quality comedy, brunches and club nights, there’s always something new to discover.

Shelter Hall

This fun-loving food market is located right on the beach, with panoramic sea views from its terrace.

Brighton Food Tours

Led by local foodies, these walking tours reveal the sizzling spots you won’t find in a guidebook.

Brighton Bear Weekend

For four days of big, burly fun, the BBW gets Brighton growling – with club nights, bear-a-oke and more.

A landmark gay venue and nightclub, having been a part of Brighton’s gay and lesbian scene for over 30 years.

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Brighton Festival

A cornucopia of live theatre, music, dance and cinema, in celebration of the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

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Brighton Fringe

This annual festival showcases Brighton’s incredible arts scene – featuring dance, music, theatre and more.

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The Great Escape

At venues across Brighton, this music festival hosts a diverse array of over 500 pop and rock acts.

Festival Republic

One Garden Brighton

This garden, market and café has mindfulness at its heart, and hosts wellness workshops and festivals.

Brighton Diver Rampion Wind Farm Tour

This is no ordinary boat cruise: you’ll voyage out to the whirring turbines of Rampion wind farm.

Brighton Diver

The Mindful Garden

Take a fresh look at the Royal Pavilion gardens, with the help of this mindfulness audio guide.

Beach Box Spa

Step inside for a hot, health-enriching sauna experience – then take a cooling plunge in the sea.

Volk's Electric Railway

For a scenic ride along the seafront, take this open-air train: it has been running for over 135 years.

Volks Electric Railway, Brighton

Lure Boat Trips

Don’t just learn how to catch a fish in the ocean – discover how to prepare and cook it, too.

Brighton Lure Boat

Brighton Marina

This shopping and dining area overlooks the marina’s bobbing yachts – a trendy spot to linger in.

To the west of Brighton, this neighbourhood is known for its brightly-painted beach huts and shops.

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Brighton Bike Tours

From street art to sea views, this entertaining ride reveals Brighton’s best bits – all on two wheels.

‘Kind to the environment and good for the soul’: that’s the motto of this forward-thinking bistro.

Kindling Restaurant

North Laine

You’ll find everything from vintage fashion to foodie temptations in this quirky retail quarter.

Brighton Fishing Museum

This maritime museum tells the story of Brighton’s humble roots, as a hub for sailors and traders.

Brighton Seafront Heritage Front

Piers and Queers Tour

From Regency ‘dandies’ to political activism, discover the stories behind this famously progressive city.

The Brighton Sauna

With its steam room, pools and cabins, this adults-only hangout is a great place to meet like-minded men.

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London Road

Looking for a bargain? This arty district is home to the Open Market and second-hand shops galore.

Featured things to do

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Outdoor adventure awaits

From soaring high above Brighton, to floating on the water aboard a kayak – the city is full of outdoor adventure set to get your adrenaline pumping.

Celebrate Pride

Join the party as two days of celebrations come to Brighton – with headline acts, drag artists, DJ sets and live performances, this is one unforgettable weekend.

Hit the streets

Vintage finders, collectable hunters and bargain lovers – head to Brighton’s streets for a shopping scene full of indie shops, boutique and antique stores.

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Festive cheer

Skate across the ice rink outside Brighton’s iconic Royal Pavilion for a sprinkling of festive cheer in the city.

Places to stay in Brighton

East of the city is this neighbourhood known for its artists, and today is home to one of Britain’s largest LGBTQ communities. It has great bistros, wine bars and you’ll find all things organic and chic here.

Hip and happening Hanover is where a lot of Brighton folk choose to live. You’ll recognise it by its colourfully painted houses and buildings and rammed with restaurants, cafés and bars - which all come as a reward after a very steep hill you have to get up first.

Once a separate part of Brighton, now in a happy marriage. It has lovely regal houses, squares and places to stay. Quieter and more elegant than Brighton itself, with a more laid-back approach to life.

Explore nearby

South downs.

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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Getting to Brighton

London Gatwick is the closest international airport to Brighton, taking around 30 minutes by train with various rail companies; see National Rail to play a journey.

With regular trains from London, Portsmouth and Southampton, as well as the Eurostar from King’s Cross St Pancras, it’s quick and easy to get to Brighton from destinations across the south east.

National Express offer a coach from London to Brighton taking around two hours. It’s also well connected to elsewhere in Britain by train or coach.

Getting around

Brighton’s compact size makes it easy to explore by foot, bike or bus once there. Brighton and Hove’s award-winning buses are regular, cost-effective and eco-friendly – making them the ideal way to journey further afield.

Check train times to Brighton from destinations across the south east, including Gatwick and find out more about times, fares and discounts .

Brighton’s best explored on foot, so grab one of VisitBrighton’s downloadable maps , and chuck on your trainers and hit the streets.

Get on your bike and head out on Brighton’s coastal route, for gorgeous sea views and access to the South Downs Way and National Park.

Want to know more?

For insider tips and top places to visit, hit up Visit Brighton.

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Brighton (East Sussex, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Brighton (East Sussex, England)

Stylish, progressive and full of fun, Brighton could claim to be England’s party capital, and pulls in day-trippers from across the south for days at the beach, nights out and shopping.

The city has a thriving arts and creative industry, and its reputation for culture is bolstered by the Brighton Festival every May.

At the end of the 18th century the upper class arrived in what was then a fishing village to “take the cure”, to bathe in the seawater and even drink it.

In that first wave of holidaymakers was the Prince Regent (future George IV). He ordered the Royal Pavilion, an Indo-Saracenic looks like no other palace in the west, with bulging domes and minarets.

Brighton also has a large LGBT community, and 400,000 people come to the city for the annual Brighton Pride in August.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Brighton :

1. Royal Pavilion

As a stylish 20-something the Prince Regent first came to Brighton in 1783 and before long he was spending so much of his leisure time at the town that he commissioned a seaside palace.

The architect was John Nash, also known for London’s Regent Street and Buckingham Palace.

The initial palace was Neoclassical, but in 1815, not long before he became King, George ordered Nash to redesign the building to reflect his taste for the oriental.

With its onion domes and minarets the marvellous Royal Pavilion could easily be mistaken for a mosque.

The audio guide conveys you around the plush interiors, into the Banqueting Room, Great Kitchen where you’ll find out about George’s diet, and into the Royal Bedrooms, adapted when George was overweight and ailing later in life.

2. Palace Pier

One of the UK’s major landmarks, the Palace Pier pushes out into the English Channel for half a kilometre at the bottom of the Old Steine thoroughfare.

The pier has been a “bucket and spade” stalwart since it opened in 1899 and for most of the 20th century was dominated by a theatre demolished in the 1970s after it became structurally unsound.

Since then the Palace Pier has been a kind of amusement park over the water, with fairground rides and traditional games, concessions stands, two arcades and the biggest soft play area in the city at four storeys high.

As a blast of old-school English seaside fun it will be top of the agenda if you’re in Brighton with youngsters.

3. The Lanes

When Brighton was a humble fishing village the quarter now know as the Lanes was the core of the settlement.

This neighbourhood has the dual appeal of being the oldest part of the city and one of the best places to dine, shop and visit to paint the town red.

The Lanes is a labyrinth of narrow alleys often no wider than an arm span.

They twist through a ravine of painted two-storey buildings, which differ more to Brighton Regency and Victorian townhouses.

Come to this cosy part of the city for cafes, bakeries, antique shops, hand-made jewellery boutiques, and walk to the tune of the buskers that have long been a fixture of the quarter.

4. North Laine

Between Brighton Railway Station and the Royal Pavilion, North Laine is a hip shopping district where more than 300 shops are crammed into less than half a square mile.

In Medieval Times the compact grid of streets at North Laine was a network of tracks around farming plots, and after these were paved over in the 19th century the area became an overcrowded slum.

In the 20th century the whole area was earmarked for demolition and redevelopment, but was rescued as a Conservation Area in the 70s, allowing it to flourish into the current bohemian district of vintage shops, design boutiques, music stores and trendy cafes.

There’s a community of designers making a living at studios in North Laine, producing metalwork, glassware, jewellery, ceramics, sculpture and clothing.

5. Going Out

For decades now, Brighton has been the English destination of choice for stag parties and hen parties, and on weekends in spring and summer the city teems with people down from London celebrating before their nuptials.

For everyone else there’s a venue that will suit your speed, style or scene, from gastropubs, to craft beer pubs, bars with live music, gay pubs, stylish alternative bars and multilevel mega-clubs.

These can be found across the Lanes, North Laine, along Trafalgar Street, on Churchill Square, Western Road and east into Kemptown.

To pick one nightspot to sum up Brighton, The Haunt is a club with a trendy crowd, in a converted cinema booking live bands up to four nights a week.

6. Brighton Beach and Seafront

By the water you’ll know you’re in an English seaside resort, catching the scent of fish and chips and watching deckchairs fluttering in the breeze.

The pebble beach, 5.4 miles long, has that Victorian glamour with a dash of Brighton’s youthful energy and style, with bars and clubs keeping the waterfront alive after dark.

Out in front of the new British Airways i360 you’ll see the husk of the burnt out West Pier, which was abandoned in the 1970s and was lost to a fire in 2003. The arches facing what’s left of the pier have lovable little independent shops selling books, photographic prints and homewares.

7. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

Part of the same ensemble as the Royal Pavilion, the building housing the Brighton Museum was intended as the Prince Regent’s tennis court.

This was never completed and instead became a cavalry barracks, albeit a highly ornate one with multifoil aches and minarets.

The museum holds collections of decorative art, natural sciences, fine art, world art, costumes and textiles, oral history, toys, film and more, all stylishly presented in absorbing galleries.

Some of the pieces not to be missed are a Kinemacolour Camera invented around 1910 by British film pioneer George Albert Smith, a pair of breeches belonging to King William IV, a lifelike Egyptian funerary portrait from the 2nd century and the Hove amber cup, a Bronze Age vessel fashioned from a single chunk of amber.

8. Old Steine Gardens

Back when Brighton was the tiny fishing village of Brighthelmstone, Old Steine Gardens was the village green with a stream running through it.

Before long the gardens became a recreation area in a growing resort, and was incorporated the eastern lawns of William IV’s Royal Pavilion.

Now it’s a green space in touching distance of all Brighton’s big landmarks, neighbourhoods and cultural venues: Moments south is the Palace Pier, to the east is Kemptown, The Lanes are just to the west, while Royal Pavilion is right next door.

At the centre, bordered by flowerbeds is the cast iron and sandstone Victoria Fountain, erected in 1847 to commemorate the queen’s accession to the throne.

The lawns around the fountain fill up on sunny days, and are at the epicentre of Brighton Pride in August and the Brighton Festival in May.

9. Kemptown

East of the Palace Pier and continuing along King’s Cliff as far as Black Rock, Kempstown is a desirable and cosmopolitan neighbourhood populated by artists and actors.

Most of Kemptown was built in the Regency and Victorian periods, leaving it with splendid squares, imposing seafront crescents and quirky buildings like the Sassoon Mausoleum, dating to 1892 and now a nightclub.

This part of the city is Brighton’s “gay quarter” and many of the businesses are oriented to the LGBT community.

It’s also a great place to go shopping, especially if you like chic design, obscure food and hunting for antiques.

10. British Airways i360

On the seafront at where the burnt out West Pier once met the promenade, stands the British Airways i360, an observation tower that opened in 2016. The monument is a new landmark for the city and was designed and realised by the team behind the London Eye.

You’ll embark on a 20-25-minute ride in a large pod with 360° panoramas 162 metres above the city and coast.

When the sun’s out you should see the cliffs at Beachy Head and the Isle of Wight 50 miles to the west.

Inside the pod you can order a drink at the Nyetimber Sky Bar, sponsored by a brand of sparkling wine produced on the county’s chalk hills.

11. Preston Manor

One stop on the train from the centre of Brighton is a stately home in the Preston Village suburb.

Preston Manor has existed since 1086 at the latest, when it was mentioned in the Domesday book.

The manor house is mostly Palladian from the 18th century, but there are taces of a 13th-century building in the basement, while the north facade was remodelled in 1905. Inside, Preston Manor has retained the style of an Edwardian stately home and has collections from the period of decorative art, glass, silver, clocks, ceramics and exquisite furniture bequeathed by Edwardian collector Percy Macquoid.

This opulence is complemented by more austere staff areas like the servants’ quarters, kitchen, butler’s pantry and boot hall.

Out in the grounds there’s a 17th-century walled garden and a touching graveyard for the family pets.

12. Devil’s Dyke

Hanging out in Brighton it can be easy to forget that there’s a national park in the city’s back garden.

Traffic permitting, you can reach one of the most arresting natural sights in the South Downs National Park in 20 minutes.

The Devil’s Dyke is a 100-metre-deep V-shaped cleft, sliced from the landscape in the last Ice Age when melting snow poured along the frozen chalk valley.

The hills around the valley climb to 217 metres and if the weather’s on your side you’ll be able to see as far as the Isle of Wight.

You make the trip up to the namesake pub on the brow of the valley, watch the paragliders leaping from the hillside and walk a section of the South Downs Way, a 100-mile National Trail.

13. Booth Museum of Natural History

Also up around Preston Village is a free museum named for the Victorian naturalist and collector Edward Thomas Booth.

With scores of taxidermied birds, preserved butterflies and other antique animal specimens, the museum is like a time capsule and is as much an exhibition about Victorian scientific customs as it is about the natural world

The attraction opened in this neo-Byzantine hall in 1874, and when Booth donated the museum to the city in 1890 he stipulated that his 300 dioramas must not be altered.

You can view 650 species of butterfly, the native birdlife of the UK in 150-year-old reproductions of their habitats.

The museum also has extensive fossil and mineral collections, rare skeletons of a dodo and woolly rhinoceros, and Victorian oddities like a merman.

14. St Bartholomew’s Church

Worth a detour a few streets from the railway station, St Bartholomew’s Church is a Victorian brick-built monument poking above the skyline.

This Neo-Gothic church was built in the first half of the 1870s and makes an impression for the unusual height of its nave.

At 41 metres tall, this could well be the largest parish church nave in Britain, although it’s difficult to draw comparisons to other buildings as the design is so unorthodox.

The architecture is inspired by the Italian Gothic and there are horizontal bands of white Portland limestone climbing the south facade.

There’s a flight of marble steps leading up to the high altar, which is covered by marble and alabaster baldachin, 13.7 metres high and in the Byzantine style.

15. Brighton Festival

Now more than 50 years old, the Brighton Festival is England’s biggest multidisciplinary arts festival.

For three weeks every May there’s a feast of music, dance, theatre, film, art circus and family events, held at both established and out of the ordinary pop-up venues around the city.

Each year the festival is curated by a guest director, famous in their field.

Laurie Anderson was in charge in 2016, and in previous years the likes of Anish Kapoor, Brian Eno and Vanessa Redgrave have all taken the reins.

The festival is organised by the same company that runs the Brighton Dome, the city’s top arts venue where ABBA famously won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with “Waterloo”.

15 Best Things to Do in Brighton (East Sussex, England):

• Royal Pavilion
• Palace Pier
• North Laine
• Brighton Beach and Seafront
• Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
• Old Steine Gardens
• British Airways i360
• Preston Manor
• Devil's Dyke
• Booth Museum of Natural History
• St Bartholomew's Church
• Brighton Festival

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Brighton & Hove, one of Britain's liveliest cities, with a passion for creativity, with a bohemian, artistic, eccentric atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else in the UK. Full of elegant Regency architecture, museums and galleries, a glittering nightlife and a rich arts and theatre scene. A city by the sea, made for exploring, stoking up the vibe and enjoying all the fun of the seaside.

Things to do in Brighton

Brighton a city made for walking, head out and explore the narrow 17th century Lanes, an area nestling between North Laine and the seafront. Stretching between East Street, Ship Street and North Street, Brighton Lanes are just a ten-minute walk from Brighton Station and a five-minute walk to Brighton Palace Pier. Discover the maze of narrow alleyways cramped full of independent shops selling antiques, jewellery and designer clothes. Hidden squares, full of cafes, bars and restaurants stretching onto the pavements, creating a cosmopolitan vibe. A labyrinth full of unusual and eccentric shops, alongside your favourite high street names at the award-winning Churchill Square shopping mall or the designer discount outlets at Brighton Marina.

Don't miss the chance to visit the Royal Pavilion , King George IV's seaside fantasy palace with its Indian domes and oriental interiors - Europe's most extraordinary royal palace.

The city's museums are treasure houses of inspiring objects from all eras and cultures. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery has dynamic and innovative new galleries, which feature exciting interactive displays appealing to all ages, while a visit to Preston Manor gives a glimpse into the life of a prosperous Edwardian family and their servants.

The arts play a major part in city life especially in May when the Brighton Festival, England's largest international arts festival, attracts thousands of people to hundreds of events for 3 weeks. You can see pre and post-West End shows at the Theatre Royal, arts and comedy at Komedia, classical concerts at the Brighton Dome and pop stars at the Brighton Centre .

Brighton's nightlife is relaxed and fun-fuelled, with stylish bars, traditional pubs and the biggest selection of restaurants outside London - over 400 serving mouth-watering cuisine from around the world. There's live music nearly every night of the week and a host of evening venues to experience including Globalls a 12-hole indoor golf course all in stunning UV. 

Brighton on the beach Enjoy all the fun of the fair on the Victorian Brighton Palace Pier with its whirling Waltzers, fish & chips and candy floss. Stroll along the vibrant beachfront with its lively cafés and bars, pubs and clubs, Artists' and Fishing Quarters, beach volleyball court, children's play area and dramatic sculptures framing the sea views.

Take to the sky on board the Brighton i360 viewing tower and glide up to 450ft for the best views in Brighton! The iconic ruins of the West Pier can be seen right here, one of Brighton’s most Instagrammable spots.

Discover Brighton's origins at the Fishing Museum and its development at the 1820's Regency Town House, dive in with a visit to the oldest operating aquarium in the world at Brighton Sea Life Centre full of original Victorian architecture, or hop on the world’s oldest working electric railway from the Aquarium Station stop near Brighton Pier to the Marina.

And there's always something happening on the seafront and in the streets - classic car rallies and cycle races, fun runs, parties, and processions. A year-round events calendar means there’s plenty of things to do and events to enjoy whatever time of the year you decide to visit.

Places to stay in Brighton

The Grand Brighton is an iconic Victorian property steeped in British history and stands centre stage on Brighton’s famous seafront. From the stunning sweeping spiral staircase and traditional period design to the beautiful sea view rooms and the new contemporary brand-new restaurant Cyan, the Grand experience is treating yourself to the best.

Amsterdam Hotel rooms offer stunning views over Brighton's famous Pier, beach and seafront and are fitted with multi-channel digital LCD flat screen TVs. Most of the hotel rooms have large en-suite walk in showers or wet rooms, all with large double or twin single beds, TV and Tea & Coffee making facilities.

Whether you are looking for accommodation by the beach or an escape to the South Downs, you'll be spoilt for choice with the selection on offer.

London to Brighton by Train

Brighton is situated on the South Coast of England , in the county of East Sussex. The city sites between Worthing and Eastbourne and nestles on the edge of the South Downs National Park. It takes just over an hour to reach Brighton from London, with direct trains running from London Bridge and London Victoria. This mainline commuter route means trains are regular and plentiful.

Hove is a district of Brighton, located to the west of Brighton, it with its own character and identify. Full of quaint squares, sweeping crescents, independent shops and eateries galore, its easy to wander into Hove on a stroll along the seafront and not even realise you are there!

Things to do in Brighton this weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend, take a look below for some weekend inspiration in and around Brighton. From things to do and places to stay and eat, you’ll find plenty of things to fill your weekend away, day trip or holiday in Sussex.

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Brighton & Hove

This autumn a brand new National Open Water Swimming Centre of Excellence will open in Brighton.   Located on Madeira Drive the Sea Lanes development will include a 50m outdoor swimming pool. The first stage of construction should be completed by…

Lime Squeezy

Get your Thai on the fly at Lime Squeezy. You’ll find us on Jubilee Street in the heart of the bustling North Laines. Life is fast-paced - we say wring every last drop out of it – so why should you slow down when you need to refuel?

The award winning Nostos is a place where a nostalgic feeling of the past meets a delightful smell of the present and a grateful smile for the future.

The Claremont

Guest House

The Claremont, with elegant, comfortable and stylish rooms combined with intuitive and discreet levels of customer care gives you the ultimate in an enhanced stay experience. 

West Beach Bar & Kitchen

Brighton Fringe 2024

During May & June, Brighton Fringe welcomes international performers and audiences as it showcases the creative heart and soul of the city and its unique cultural heritage.

Brighton i360

Sightseeing

Take to the skies to see Brighton and the South Coast as you have never seen them before!

The New Club

The New Club is an American styled restaurant, café and bar located on Brighton Seafront where you will experience the taste and feel of New York City.

Golf Course

Brighton Marina Village, BRIGHTON

Globalls has it’s very own 12-hole indoor golf course, this is a unique games experience. Based on an aquatic, carnival or tropicana theme you can play amongst life size neon sculptures and wall art.

The Living Coast By Bike

One of the best ways to discover this area is by bike and to help you explore, we have developed a series of tried and tested bike rides. The rides are graded easy, medium and hard, so no matter your ability you will be able to find something that…

Exploring Brighton & Hove

Voted one of the top 10 city beach break destinations in the world, Brighton & its beachfront are legendary. But there is so much more to Brighton than just the beach and if you are spending time in the city, make time to head out and explore the…

The Urchin Brewery & Shellfish Pub

Enjoy a plate of oysters with a pint of stout by the sea as The Urchin Brewery & Shellfish is keeping the dockyard spirit alive! With craft beer brewed on site and a selection of wine, there won't ever be any shortages of top class beverages as you…

New Steine Hotel

The New Steine is ideal for business trips, conference centre or exploring Brighton. Stylish cocktail lounge with wireless connection, fabulous bedrooms, internet links, cosy French restaurant and intimate conference facilities.

The Stirling Arms

Alternative Accommodation

The Stirling Arms Pub & Rooms, based in central Hove, East Sussex, boasts four cosy guest bedrooms with en suite bathrooms - perfect for those short getaways with the family.

Albourne Estate Vineyard

Set deep in the glorious Sussex countryside overlooking the South Downs, yet just 8 miles from Brighton. Visitors are warmly welcome at our vineyard as well as in our Tasting Room to sample our award-winning wines. 

Brighton Street Art

Having earned itself an international reputation over the last few years for its stunning and original street artwork dotted around the city, Brighton & Hove is certainly a mecca for the creative.

Brighton Local Produce

Serves Local Produce

Whether it's seafood caught fresh from the sea or vegetables from a Sussex farm, drinks from one of the local Sussex vineyards or perhaps a spirit from a local distillery, you're to be able to enjoy some 'made in Sussex' or 'made in Brighton'…

Artist Open Houses May Festival

The Artists Open Houses festival provides a unique experience for visitors, where you can view an array of work from contemporary and original local artists and makers in their homes, as well as meeting the artists and buying artwork and crafts…

The Walrus, situated on the historic Ship Street at the heart of Brighton's famous Lanes, each has it''s own unique designs to the rooms with endless winding passageways.

Bewilder Box Escape Rooms Brighton

Escape Room

Bewilder Box is a puzzle based adventure game in which you and your team race against the clock to complete challenges whilst taking part in a tantalisingly silly immersive story. For families, friends, stag/hen parties, & team building!

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10 Best Things to Do in Brighton for a Great Day Out

Brighton is a guaranteed great day out, especially if you have the weather on your side. With a huge beachfront, plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants, and lots of attractions to suit every age and interest, it really is one of the best days out in England. If you’re planning a day trip to this beautiful seaside resort, these are the best things to do in Brighton for a day out to remember…

• 10 Best Days Out in South East England (+ London) - 10 April 2024
• 10 Best Days Out in the East Midlands - 3 April 2024
• 10 Best Days Out in the West Midlands - 1 March 2024

Do you want to see your favourite England attraction, event or activity listed here? Email us at [email protected] !

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Welcome to Brighton!

An inclusive, free-thinking city in the heart of Sussex. With a blend of modern culture and exotic architecture, sea and countryside, make Brighton your base and discover new places and experiences both inside the city and out.

What’s Brighton like in a nutshell?

Ever since royal party animal George IV fell in love with Brighton back in the 18th Century, the city has been a magnet for visitors in search of fun, frolics and fresh sea air. With its majestic Regency squares and crescents, iconic Royal Pavilion and famous piers, today Brighton is as well-known for being a welcoming and diverse city with a passion for culture, creativity and sustainability as it is for its historic landmarks.

With art, live music and entertainment on tap, plus an ever-growing abundance of independent shops, boutique hotels and award-winning restaurants, what more could a city have to offer? Quite a lot, it turns out! Apart from having eight miles of beach on its doorstep and being bang in the middle of a UNESCO World Biosphere Region, it also borders the magnificent South Downs National Park , which is itself an International Dark Sky Reserve. And given that it’s a one-hour train journey from London and a half-hour train journey from London Gatwick Airport, it couldn’t be easier to get here.

So here at VisitBrighton HQ, we’ve gathered together everything we know about our fabulous city that could be of interest to you and organised it into handy sections to help you plan your trip. You’ll find information on things to do , what’s on , where to stay , and where to eat, drink, shop . We also have a helpful plan your visit section and a meetings and conferences section .

Are you ready to

be inspired!

Inspiration.

Marta escapes the city for dinner at one of Sussex's finest country pubs - The Sloop Inn.

• 18 May 2024 19 May 2024

We have so much happening

all year round

What's on highlights.

Des Kapital: Taylor (Reds Version)

It’s the ‘Errors Tour!’, ‘Singing Andy’ is back with his cult Karaoke History show! The ‘pop star…

Where Do All The Quiet Gays Go?

Gay culture. Loud, proud and sexy. Me. Awkward, introverted and- well... What do you do when…

Sambroso Allstars Perform The Buena Vista

Sambroso Noda, the beating heart of London’s Cuban community and flourishing music scene, has…

Paint your very own Neon Nights - You Wish

It’s giving Shark Tale. Neon Nights: You Wish will have you playing with paint as you create a…

Charlie Parr

Roots, blues and Americana from Minnesota's Charlie Parr.

Cabarave: Kaleidoscope

Cabaravers we are back! Our first event in this venue was one of our all time favourites, it was…

Tatty Macleod

Also known as 'That French TikTok Lady', stand-up comedian Tatty Macleod is bringing her certain je…

Formed in 2019 as a 'jam band', Welsh six-piece Church Village Collective (or CVC for short) took…

Femme Fatale - Paint Your Inner Self

Mysterious? Tick. Beautiful? Tick. Brave? Tick. Colourful? Tick. Wait, is this artwork you? Femme…

Café Culture

In a Parisian cafe, there you sit with your croissant and café au lait. The croissant is warm,…

Rose getaway

Pack your bags and pack the rosé because we’re going on a little arty getaway. It’s summer all the…

The Brighton Big Band + Cream Tea

The Brighton Big Band _and__ __ _Cream Tea In the Community Centre's delightful garden ( or if…

Arrested Development

Funky, soulful and slightly eccentric hip hop combo with a responsible global message.

Moonage - The Best of Bowie

Moonage are a recently formed David Bowie Tribute Band. They comprise experienced musicians who…

The erstwhile 80s pop pin-up plays his brand of post-punk and dandy pop.

The Woman In White

A tempestuous tale of love, betrayal and greed, skilfully adapted from Wilkie Collins’ haunting…

Trestle By Stewart Pringle

We're not here forever. You've got to take a chance from time to time. Sometimes you've got to…

Punk Rock Factory

High energy, punk rock powerhouses Punk Rock Factory make easy work of their special brand of punk…

Jordan Rakei: Live (early Performance)

**Due to an exceptional level of demand, we've added a second (earlier) instore performance with…

Bon Jovi Tribute Show

Bon Jovi Tribute Show with Bon Adams These Fab Four young guys have the energy, talent and…

Skating Polly

American rock band formed in Oklahoma City in 2009 by multi-instrumentalist step-siblings Kelli…

Sdtc Improbable Fiction

Six aspiring authors meet on a winter's evening to discuss their work. The chairman, Arnold,…

Glitterbox @ Central Park

Central Park presents the world famous Glitterbox, for the first of 3 exclusive outdoor music shows…

Contemporary folk material by the Chelmsford singer-songwriter and musician.

• 1 Des Kapital: Taylor (Reds Version)
• 2 Where Do All The Quiet Gays Go?
• 3 Sambroso Allstars Perform The Buena Vista
• 4 Paint your very own Neon Nights - You Wish
• 5 Charlie Parr
• 6 Cabarave: Kaleidoscope
• 7 Tatty Macleod
• 9 Femme Fatale - Paint Your Inner Self
• 10 Café Culture
• 11 Rose getaway
• 12 The Brighton Big Band + Cream Tea
• 13 Arrested Development
• 14 Moonage - The Best of Bowie
• 15 Adam Ant
• 16 The Woman In White
• 17 Trestle By Stewart Pringle
• 18 Punk Rock Factory
• 19 Jordan Rakei: Live (early Performance)
• 20 Bon Jovi Tribute Show
• 21 Skating Polly
• 22 Sdtc Improbable Fiction
• 23 Glitterbox @ Central Park
• 24 Tom McRae

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Brighton, England

Known as the UK’s LGBTQ Capital, Brighton prides itself on its reputation as a cultural and environmental powerhouse. Once the destination for curative sea-bathing, people have been flocking to Brighton for hundreds of years. But it’s not just something in the water; the city hides a plethora of riches in its diverse streets – plentiful pubs, boutiques, cafés and a cultural quarter bursting with offbeat offerings. From the South Downs to the Channel, here’s a list of must-sees for the seaside experience of a lifetime.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

The Royal Pavilion

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

The flamboyant charm and vision of George IV is responsible for the iconic Pavilion, which is still holding court in the heart of Brighton some 230 years later. Richly eccentric, the one-time pleasure palace of a robust, gambling good-timer blends Mughal and Islamic architectural traditions with stunning results. It can be appreciated from the outside well enough, but also permits visitors to explore it and learn more about the history.

Pavilion Gardens

Architectural Landmark, Music Venue Not to be outdone by the shadows of spires and onion domes, the promenade winding through the Royal Pavilion and its neighbour the Brighton Dome is worth a stroll any day of the year, but is most resplendent in the spring and early summer. The Pavilion Gardens regularly play host to a variety of events, including small outdoor concerts and horticultural shows, and there’s even a small café on the fringes, so you can enjoy a coffee in this idyllic setting.

May Festival season

Natural Feature Each spring, the cultured, artistic masses descend on Brighton for a stellar lineup of unique festivals; the Brighton Festival spans the month of May. The Brighton Fringe brings the weird and wonderful to venues throughout the city while The Great Escape showcases new and unsigned bands during a whirlwind month of carnivalesque proportions. There are a number of other, more specific festivals which take place during May, so it’s worth checking online to see what’s happening and plan your trip around what holds the most appeal.

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

Art Gallery, Museum Part of the Royal Pavilion Estate, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery hosts a considerable archival collection from early Brighton in print, as well as many personal pieces from King George IV. Historical exhibitions and new art installations rotate through the museum’s schedule month to month, as well as hosting special events.

The North Laine

Market Before heading down to the sea, amble and browse over 400 unique shops and cafés in this colourful quarter. Some of the best watering holes the city has to offer are situated here – as are some of the best venues for an evening of entertainment – the stunning, Grade II-listed Theatre Royal and Komedia.

Architectural Landmark

Small but perfectly formed, the labyrinthine Lanes guard a trove of shiny treasures – antiques, jewellery, cake and enough restaurants to fill an afternoon. The salt from the sea is nearly perceptible here – but don’t rush.

The seafront

Natural Feature

It may sound like a no brainer, but no trip to Brighton would be complete without a bumpy seat on the city’s infamous pebble beach – better yet, take a ride on a candy-floss painted horse on the classic carousel before renting a striped deck chair to watch the sunset. There are numerous bars and restaurants lining the beach, so you won’t be stuck for places to drop anchor, and you can even rent a kayak and hit the waves if so inclined.

Brighton Palace Pier

Amusement Park, Architectural Landmark Cheap thrills, spills and stuff-your-face fills await on this icon of a bustling seaside retreat. To the west, you can glimpse the Pier’s elegant, fading sister – the West Pier – still standing regally in the distance.The Palace houses a massive arcade which you can lose hours in, as well as a boardwalk which provides one of the best viewing platforms anywhere in Brighton.

The British Airways i360

Building The world’s tallest moving observation tower climbs the sky, like a lone alien from an H G Wells novella. From 138 meters up, it lends panoramic views of the city, the South Downs and, on a clear day, even the Isle of Wight.

SeaLife Centre

Aquarium It’s the world’s oldest operating aquarium, and a mainstay of Brighton’s seafront. Their motto is Breed, Rescue, Protect, with monthly beach cleans. Key attractions include the Day & Night display, a 750,000 litre tank which can show visitors the coral cycle across a 24 hour period. You can even skim over the top of the tanks in a glass bottom boat.

Brighton Marina

One of Europe’s largest marinas and a village in its own right, Brighton Marina boasts restaurants, a cinema, and even glow-in-the-dark dinosaur mini-golf. For those who want to get in the water, there are diving courses and jet ski rental – with picturesque views of the moored yachts.

Hove Lagoon

Natural Feature The sea can be a scary place to try out any water sport; Hove Lagoon offers wakeboarding, kitesurfing, paddle boarding and more for novices and experts alike. Once you’ve got your sea legs, you might get lucky enough to be sent out into the drink for a spin.

Park, Skate Park There are plenty of notable green spaces in the city, but following a recent revamp, The Level – hailed as Brighton’s Central Park – now boasts a busy skate park, well used by locals. There’s also Pétanque and plenty of space to share a picnic.

Architectural Landmark Tags and murals line the back streets of the city, creating an ever-changing backdrop of colour. It could take days to find your favourite. Streets like Orange Row and Regent Street are a wash of colour, and you can even spot the work of some famous artists if you know where to look, including a replica of Banksy’s Kissing Policemen (the original has sadly since been covered up).

Preston Park Rockery

The elegantly terraced space – Britain’s largest municipal rock garden – was recently voted England’s Best Park during the Fields in Trust awards. A woodland oasis, the Rockery is a space for exploration, as well as a haven for the bees and birds.

St Bartholomew’s Church

Church This striking red brick building dates back to 1874, the project of the relatively unknown architect Edmund Scott. Rising up behind London Road, it is visible throughout the city, but its great height is most impressive from within.

South Downs National Park

A viridescent carpet drifting towards the top of the world, this enormous sweep of hills, thickets and chalk cliffs spilling to the sea offer spectacular vistas. Encompassing the Seven Sisters, Devil’s Dyke and Ditchling Beacon, the air up there, it seems, is just a bit sweeter too.

Earthship Brighton

Building, Park The Low Carbon Trust’s pioneering project culminated in the country’s first Earthship, a sustainable, low-impact community centre designed to educate and inspire climate-friendly lifestyles. Tours of this special space explore clean energy initiatives and the ingenious building methods that went into this trailblazing build.

The AmEx Stadium

Stadium With imminent promotion, the home of Brighton and Hove Albion is worth a visit. If you can’t get a ticket, it’s best viewed from the South Downs, mimicking the sweep of the lush surrounding landscape.

Sports Center A sea of sand in an otherwise shingled landscape, Yellowave is the UK’s first beach-sport centre of its kind. Catch a beach volleyball tournament on the weekends, while those who don’t fancy jumping around can stop in for a cuppa and a cake.

Upside Down House

Art Gallery

If you casually walk along the beachfront between the i360 and the Beach Club, you might notice something peculiar – a house that has literally been flipped on its head. In reality, the Upside Down House is one of Brighton’s best curiosities. Venture inside and you’ll find a gallery of optical illusions and topsy-turvy furniture. Few attractions are better fodder for the ’gram than the Upside Down House.

Helicopter Tours

Natural Feature Why simply walk the streets and beaches of Brighton when you can see everything from the air? A helicopter tour is an exciting, comprehensive way to experience a city, and this is particularly true of Brighton. Using the HeliFly company, you can book a ride over the city, seeing the divide between older historical areas and newer ones, or if a tour isn’t your thing, helicopter your way to a nearby country manor house for a classy lunch.

Brighton Zip

Amusement Park Another way to get an elevated view of Brighton is the beach’s signature 300-metre twin ziplines. Easily mixed into a day of exploration, the zipline ride takes mere seconds, but offers a unique thrill and a change to take in the sea views from a higher vantage point.

Court Garden Vineyard

Winery Sitting on the outer fringes of Brighton, closer to the village of Ditchling, Court Garden has become one of the most renowned vineyards in the UK since its establishment in 2005. Tours are given regularly, enabling visitors to walk the fields, learn more about the process and sample some of the wine the vineyard produces. You have to venture just out of Brighton to reach it, but it’s worth the journey.

Brighton Toy and Model Museum

Museum, Train Station

During the late 19th and early 20th century, the UK went into a golden age of toy production – model trains, dolls’ houses and just about everything else you’d find in a haunted attic. All of it can be seen and enjoyed in a kind of living diorama across 1,000 square feet of Victorian cellar space. The museum features more than 10,000 pieces and donations mean that it is always growing.

Brighton Open Market

Market With a 50-year pedigree, Brighton Open Market is the only open air marketplace in the city, and has become a mainstay for local vendors and shoppers alike. Many shops around the city have a stall there, as well as artists and even a radio station. Unlike many similar markets, the OM is open seven days a week, and even plays host to special events throughout the year. Additional reporting by Callum Davies

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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21 Best Things To Do In Brighton

Posted on Last updated: 21 March 2024

Categories England , South East

Brighton is a seaside resort on the south coast of England. It’s one of the two main areas of the city of Brighton and Hove and is just 47 miles south of London.

This vibrant coastal city is known for its creativity and diversity and is packed full of things to do and see.

Famous attractions include the historical Brighton Palace Pier and the unique Royal Pavilion. As well as a large marina, a busy seafront and numerous theatres, art galleries and live music venues.

In addition, there’s plenty of independent shops and boutiques, cafes, restaurants, old English pubs and tea shops to enjoy.

So here’s our choice of best things to do in Brighton.

Table of Contents

1. Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier is definitely one of the top fun things to do in Brighton.

Founded in 1899, and 525m in length, it’s the most popular tourist attraction in the city.

From candy floss & churro stalls, to amusements and caricature artists, it’s the ultimate seaside haven you’ve always imagined.

Take time to enjoy rides and attractions, food and drinks and make sure to save a huge chunk of your day to adventure on the Pier.

To see exactly what’s on at the Pier, you can check the latest info on the Brighton Pier website.

2. Walk The Promenade

The promenade is just a beautiful place to be.

There’s one main walkway along the southern coastal strip and it runs parallel to the famous pebble beach. From here you can see the Palace Pier from a distance on the beach walk below.

As you walk the promenade, you’ll pass many hipster shops, vibrant outdoor pubs, mini golf, beach volleyball and more.

The promenade begins at Brighton Pier and runs all the way past the Upside Down House and the British Airways Ai360.

No matter where you stroll, you’ll see colour, happiness and people being nothing but themselves. That’s what’s so lovely about Brighton.

A great way to get around all the attractions is via the City Sightseeing Brighton: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour .

3. Volks Electric Railway

Ride along Brighton’s Seafront on a 135 year old electric railway.

Folks railways was created by a Brighton inventor and clockmaker’s son and it’s the oldest electric railway in the world.

If you’re planing to conquer all of Brighton by foot, the Volks Railway could be a little treat to rest your feet. You can relax whilst viewing the seaside town in a different light.

The Volks Railway journey is really enjoyable, whether you’re an adult or a child.

It has a really interesting history and it’s bound to keep the kids occupied for the duration of your weekend in Brighton .

4. Fish & Chips

Whether you’re from the UK or not, you will learn at some point that a standard British meal is fish and chips.

If you want to be super traditional, you can have fish and chips at the seaside.

Growing up, fish and chips at the seaside would be a common fun day out with the family and most of us have everlasting memories from these special times.

Like pad thai in Thailand, bratwurst in Germany and croissants in France, fish and chips in the most English seaside town of Brighton is something you have to tick off your bucket list.

5. Upside Down House

The Upside Down House is certainly one of the more peculiar and fun attractions to add to your Brighton itinerary .

It’s a unique family attraction allowing you to take funny pictures to share with your friends and family. 

From a photograph the illusion of being upside down is pretty cool and tops all the selfies you can get from the seaside.

This art installation has received great feedback from tourists and media for it’s value for money and unique entertainment. As well as having people rush down to capture their Brighton Instagram shot.

For more information on ticketing and prices, you can check the Upside Down House website.

6. Walk The Lanes

The Lanes in Brighton are a lively neighbourhood, packed with upmarket restaurants, quaint tea rooms, and traditional pubs serving real ale.

Down the narrow twisty alleyways, you’ll find independent jewellers and tiny, high-end antiques shops.

You can spot anything from quirky wall art to talented buskers in The Lanes, which was once the hub of the old fishing town Brighthelmstone.

7. Amusements & Rides

The most traditional of all the fun things to do is to go on the rides and visit the amusements.

Similar to places like Hunstanton and Bournemouth , the old, retro style fair ground, located at the end of Bright Palace Pier, is a guaranteed afternoon of fun.

With many different rides and prizes available for the adrenaline junkies and also the faint-hearted, there’s something for everyone.

Save up your 2p’s and grab a keyring to take home. It’s tradition.

8. Brighton i360

Brighton i360 is an innovative project that has created an iconic landmark on the famous Brighton seafront at the landward end of the former West Pier.

The tower opened on 4 August 2016.

For the best views over Brighton, this observation deck is where you’ll find just that.

At 162m high, as you can imagine, it’s also one of the best places to watch sunset in Brighton.

The newly installed viewing tower holds many different events and activities from an interesting iDrop experience, to sky dining and yoga in the clouds.

You can book your Brighton i360 Ticket in advance, and even get offers on drinks included from the bar.

9. Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion is a fascinating palace and is a Grade I listed former royal residence in the centre of Brighton.

It was built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV.

It has a colourful history and visual style of India and China. The palace itself is beautiful to look at from the many surrounding gardens.

If you fancy a look inside you can get your ticket at Royal Pavilion Admission Ticket .

People tend to pack a picnic and sit within or close to the grounds of the Royal Pavilion.

It also makes for one of the most Instagrammable places in Brighton!

10. The Old Pier (Brighton West Pier)

For over a century and a half the West Pier has been Britain’s most iconic pier. Renowned for its wonderful architectural style, it has been visited and enjoyed by millions.

Even today with its sculptural remains casting an eerie beauty over the seafront, the West Pier is still the most photographed building in Brighton.

It was designed by Eugenius Birch and opened in 1866. It was the first pier to be Grade I listed in Britain but has become increasingly derelict since its closure in 1975.

Although long closed and abandoned to the elements, miraculously it still survives as a symbolic feature of the Brighton seafront.

11. Brighton Marina

Brighton Marina is the largest Marina in the UK and has plenty to do for all ages, within its picturesque waterfront surroundings.

It’s a busy harbour with yachts and small sailboats cruising in and out.

Aside from boats, Brighton Marina is a chic shopping hub with fashion boutiques, galleries, and craft shops, plus casual eateries with terraces overlooking the water.

The Volk’s Electric Railway also shuttles between the marina and Brighton Pier. So you can head down for a bite to eat, plus more entertainment after a day of shopping down The Lanes and winning key rings at the Brighton Pier amusements.

With an 8 screen cinema, 26- lane recently refurbished bowling alley, glow in the dark golf and casino, there’s never a dull moment.

On the street that runs parallel to the Marina, you will also find the Brighton Walk of Fame that honours stars with local links.

12. Le Roy Art Gallery

Le Roy Art Gallery is a surreal journey of psychedelic, dark fairytale paintings in 3D in an old Victorian gallery in central Brighton.

Situated in a 3 storey 1780 fisherman’s cottage, it’s an ideal setting for Sara le Roy’s darkly humurous fairy tale painting series.

Red/blue 3D glasses need to be worn to see the effect of the peculiar, unique style paintings.

Visitors can explore through narrow corridors & stairs at their own pace, to interact with paintings in a whole new way.

If your creativity is running wild, Le Roy Art Gallery should certainly be on your list of places to visit.

13. Wall Art

Brighton is a vibrant and artistic community, so it’s easy to find incredible pieces of art work when exploring the seaside town.

You don’t have to search far and wide to find the stunning Instagram backdrops of Brighton.

Locals and tourists alike, stop and admire all the artwork scattered around the town.

The colours along with the talent behind the art gives off a real motivational and happy vibe.

14. Mini Golf

With a couple of options along the seafront, the most popular mini golf is just to the left of Brighton Palace Pier.

It can’t be missed with the large inflatable Slush Puppie dog waving around.

So if you fancy bringing your competitive streak to the forefront, why not add mini golf to your list.

15. Snoopers Paradise

When visiting Brighton, you must make time to visit snoopers paradise.

It sells vintage EVERYTHING!

Whether it’s to fit in amongst the colourful, diverse crowd of Brighton or to take something home, this little gem can’t be missed.

Situated in North Laine Bazaar, Snoopers Paradise is the most renowned flea-market in the South of England.

Inside you’ll find over 90 different stalls offering a wide range of antiques, collectables, jewellery and vintage, retro clothing.

16. Shop North Laine

North Laine is a shopping and residential district of Brighton, representing a colourful mixture of small and diverse shops and independent traders.

Whether you’re looking for clothing, fashion, gifts, services, arts, crafts, entertainment, shops, pubs, bars and cafes you’ll find it all in the North Laine area of Brighton.

Once a slum area, its many pubs, cafes, theatres and museums now make it seen as Brighton’s bohemian and cultural quarter.

17. Prince Albert Pub

Situated on Trafalgar Street, the Prince Albert Pub is also known as The Home of the Free.

On the side of the building, you’ll find colourful, graffiti paintings of world-famous rock stars that have passed away. There’s even a scribble from Banksy on there too.

The iconic pub and its bold presence is sure to strike visitors making their way down from the train station to the North Lain area of the city.

Inside, and The Prince Albert is a maze of drinking dens, an antiquated sitting room and a small music memorabilia. Up stairs there is an events room with it’s own bar, that hosts plenty of live music gigs.

It is a pub with a sense of purpose and community, that so many towns and cities now completely lack.

18. Brighton Zip

For a breathtaking and fun activity, Brighton Zip is the longest and fastest zip wire on the south coast.

Located on the beachfront, just east of Brighton Palace Pier, the zip tower starting point stands at 30m high.

After climbing the spiral staircase up to the tower platform, you get to enjoy panoramic views of Brighton seafront, Palace Pier and more, before zipping off on your ride.

Flying along 300m of Brighton beach before reaching the landing platform, this exhilarating experience is a definite for all adrenaline junkies.

19. Go Camping

Let’s be honest, a day in Brighton is never enough to see everything worth seeing. So why not take a tent and make some memories that will last a life time.

We camped for two nights, just outside of the town. The place we stayed was called Brighton Caravan and Motorhome Club Site and it was a great way to cover Brighton by having a cheap and enjoyable experience.

If you want to do it the real Brighton way, be a happy camper.

20. Loading Bar

Located on the lower promenade of Brighton seafront, this gaming bar is right next to Brighton Pier. Open from midday until 11pm during the week and from 10am until 11pm at the weekend.

With classic arcade games, old and new consoles and over 100 board games to choose from, you are sure to find something to enjoy playing. You might even revisit some of your old favourite childhood games!

This is a great place to meet up and enjoy some free gaming along with some good food, especially for gaming enthusiasts.

Serving a video game themed, burger menu and brunch options, as well as coffee, cocktails, craft beer milkshakes and smoothies this makes for an ideal stop off for a bit of fun.

21. Eat Local

The trendy seaside town of Brighton has no shortage of great places to eat and drink.

Brighton has evolved over the years to become one of the hippest holiday hangouts in the country.

Some of my favourite places to eat are:

The best sushi burritos around. With a vegan menu and great ethics, Happy Maki makes truly feel good food.

Happy Maki have a takeaway on Pool Valley and a 50 seater restaurant on Sydney Street North Lanes.

Crunch & Co

If you are looking for more of a snack, Crunch & Co sell artisan grilled sandwiches and speciality soups to take-away or eat-in.

Also located in the North Laine area of Brighton, they have a tasty selection of interesting sandwich fillings.

Bonsai Plant Kitchen

For delicious, South East Asian inspired vegan food this is THE spot.

Located in Baker Street, and serving small plates of plant based food, this friendly restaurant with a cool vibe is a great place to eat, even if you are not vegan!

White Rabbit

This popular and established pub in the North Laine area offers an awesome roast dinner along with lots of other tasty food.

All served in interesting and quirky surroundings, fitting of this vibrant area of Brighton.

Nowhere Man

If you’re looking for some super tasty, as well as vegan, pancakes, then this friendly and funky little eatery will definitely hit the spot.

Located in Upper North Street Brighton, this cafe serves delicious American pancakes and bagels along with coffee, tea and milkshakes.

Alternatively, you could be guided to all the best spots with the Brighton: Walking Food Tour .

Where To Stay In Brighton

The Grand Brighton

The Grand Brighton has a magnificent location on Brighton’s seafront and is just a 10-minute walk from Brighton Pier .

The rooms have high-quality furnishings, including Egyptian cotton bed linen and bathrobes.

Each room includes free WiFi and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and some Sky channels.

With uninterrupted views of the seafront, the stylish cocktail bar and terrace serves traditional Sussex cream teas. Guests can also enjoy fantastic seafood in the GB1 restaurant.

In the heart of vibrant Brighton, this iconic hotel is a 5-minute walk from The Lanes shopping streets and a 10-minute walk away from the Royal Pavilion.

Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront

Overlooking the seafront , Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront is just 450 yards from the Brighton Pier and the Royal Pavilion.

It offers free WiFi throughout, a restaurant with sea views, a pool and a spa.

The air-conditioned rooms at the Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront feature a Dream bed, a flat-screen TV and an en suite bathroom with free toiletries.

Guests can use the Health & Leisure club free of charge. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna and a fully equipped gym.

Home Brighton Backpackers

This backpacker’s accommodation is centrally located, just a 10-minute walk from Brighton Coach and Train Stations.

Home Brighton is a famous bar and music venue, in which The Cure and Jimmy Hendrix has previously performed.

There’s live music and DJ’s, food and drinks in the bar. Free high-speed WiFi is provided throughout the whole building.

Each morning Home Brighton offers free pancakes at breakfast. There is also a double fridge and a dry storage area provided in the kitchen and lounge.

For more places to stay in Brighton, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com .

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Pin It For Later

20 Exciting Things to Do In Brighton in 2023

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Do you want to make the most out of a visit to Brighton? We can’t blame you, there’s so much to see and do in the city that you’re going to want to squeeze a lot in when you come. So, with that in mind, we come up with the best way to see the city and the top 20 attractions that you’ll want to visit while you’re here.

Our top 20 must-visit attractions in Brighton are the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Beach, Kemptown, Preston Manor, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, Booth Museum of Natural History, Brighton Toy & Model Museum, The Lanes, North Laine, Old Steine Gardens, British Airways i360, The Devil’s Dyke, St. Bartholomew’s Church, Brighton Pride, Brighton Festival, The American Express Community Stadium, Sea Life Centre, Hove Lagoon and The Level.

Brighton Bike Tours

Before we get to the attractions, let’s talk about one of the best ways to see those attractions. It’s on a bike with me to guide you around the city. Our very own Brighton Bike Tours is ranked on Tripadvisor as the number one outdoor activity in Brighton because so many people have enjoyed it and gone back to say so online.

It only takes 2 ½ hours which includes a stop along the way to grab some tea and a cake in the Royal Pavilion Gardens and as you can see – it introduces you to a huge amount of the city.

You’ll also get to spend some time on the beautiful seafront that Brighton is quite rightly famous for and the feel of the sea breeze, the smell of the salty air as you glide by on a bicycle just can’t be beaten. It’s truly exhilarating.

The price is just £19.50 to £22.50 ( Click Here to Book ) and not only does that include a guided tour (with yours truly) but also bikes, optional helmets and somewhere to store luggage (at your own risk) if you need to.

Each tour is unique because you’re free to pursue your interests and ask questions about the things that matter to you – If your vegan, veggie, gay or green, or have a love for Art or kitch shops, do let me know as I have additional info I’d love to share with you. I can also jot down on a map some recommendations of places to go after the tour. This way you are guaranteed to get a local perspective that is completely tailored to you and your needs.

Brighton has been my home for 20 years now, and I love the city and I’ve gotten to know it very well over the years so that I can help you get the same experience of the cities present, past and near past in a much shorter time frame.

The ride is not taxing and most is a very smooth and flat ride that suits people of all riding abilities and ages. Even though Brighton is in a Valley, I can assure you that all the interesting bits are on the flat bit. It appears that even centuries ago, people didn’t want to go up hills.

A Brighton bike tour is the perfect way to get out and see the city, wake your body up to enjoy the rest of the day, bond as a group and to learn a little bit more about the city you will be spending the rest of your trip in.

Now, let’s take a look at the 20 must-visit attractions in Brighton.

The 20 Must Visit Attractions In Brighton

Brighton is simply a fantastic city and there are more than 20 awesome attractions in the city, so narrowing down to a Top 20 was quite a challenge but methinks that we’ve cracked it and we know you’ll enjoy each of the items on our list.

Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion is, without a doubt, the most iconic symbol of Brighton. It was built, originally, as a place for the Prince Regent and would later on become the home of King George IV. As the Prince of Wales, George had picked up a taste for the finer things in life as well as the illicit.

After being given a talking to by parliament for overspending on Carlton House in London, he decided to head to Brighton and rent a modest home while the Royal Pavilion was being built. It was there he would spend much of his free time with his “long-time companion” Maria Fitzherbert.

He couldn’t marry Maria because she was a Catholic, but he did anyway, against the wishes of his father’s leading to the marriage being annulled not that many years later. The Pavilion is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. which was, at that time, one of the jewels of the British Empire.

The royal connection to the buildings came to an abrupt end as Queen Victoria disliked them and some say, Brighton itself, and they were sold to the town of Brighton in 1850. Since the 1950s the city’s leadership has been working on restoring them to their former glories and they have done an admirable job.  You can’t come to Brighton and miss out on the Royal Pavilion.

I also highly recommend the audio tour as well, that really does bring the whole place alive for you. (It will keep the kids quiet for a couple of hours as well).

Brighton Palace Pier

The most strolled on attraction in Brighton and, indeed, England outside of London is the Brighton Palace Pier. More than 4 million people a year arrive to tread the 85 miles of planks that comprise this beautiful traditional seaside pier.

There are amusements galore along the pier, some traditional, some less so and in the summer it’s one of the highlights of the British seaside experience. It might be a little less warm in Winter but it’s still open and the views of a moody sea are superb from the pier. It’s a place where everyone can have fun.

Brighton Beach

Brighton’s beach is famed for its pebbles which are only there because of the “groynes” (the long wooden and concrete structures which stretch out from the shore into the sea. These direct pebbles from the water onto the shore, otherwise instead of beaches – Brighton would have mudflats. And we don’t want that!

Fortunately, while the pebbles may be a little less comfy than sand to lay on, the beach is one of the most popular in England and you can grab a deckchair and soak up some rays in complete comfort most days in high season and in the summer a swim can really help you cool down though in the winter that is pretty much around 18 degrees.

Kemp Town or Kemptown was given its name for Thomas Read Kemp a prominent property developer and politician when it was being built. While most of the housing was actually constructed after the Regency Period it follows that style and the area is very attractive to look at.

It is also the home base to the majority of Brighton’s LGBTQ community. Kemptown of the gay quarter in Brighton and often called the gay capital of Europe. Adorned with many bars, shops, restaurants and sweet little pubs.

Preston Manor

On the grounds of Preston Park, you’ll find the impressive Preston Manor . It’s a beautiful traditional manor house which would once have served the village of Preston (which has long since been absorbed into the city of Brighton & Hove).

The majority of the building was built in 1738 when the then Lord-of-the-Manor Thomas Western decided to completely rebuild the original structure. There is a small part of the original 13 th -century building still inside. It was bequeathed to the city in 1932 and is the centre of “haunted Brighton” according to some.

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

The Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is within the garden grounds of the Royal Pavilion. The museum houses part of the collection from the Royal Pavilions Estate and includes a wealth of art from around the world and much more. They have a great African section and modern furniture as well as 20th-century fashion upstairs.

There are many notable exhibits available within the collection and we’d suggest keeping an eye out for King George’s breeches among other things because he loved them so much, it was illegal to wear trousers to court until 1815 even though the fashion of the time was very much for men to wear trousers.

Booth Museum of Natural History

Edward Thomas Booth was a celebrated naturalist, collector and umm… vivisectionist. His private collection of stuffed birds, as well as other species and a superb collection of insects, is housed in the Booth Museum of Natural History .

When Booth donated the museum to Brighton in 1890, he insisted on just one condition, that they preserve the diorama displays in the way he intended them, and they have done exactly that.

Brighton Toy & Model Museum

The Brighton Toy & Model Museum is a charming collection of toys mainly manufactured before the middle of the 20 th Century. That means that it’s a bit like stepping back in time when you go inside, to a younger more innocent age. There are no Pokemon and toys of the technology age to be found.

This is a good thing. The model railways collection is absolutely unparalleled and if you love trains, you can’t go wrong. There are also excellent collections of stuffed toys such as Steiff bear and there are many others built around specific brand names. Kids will love the museum but so will adults who find themselves taking a walk down memory lane.

For those who enjoy their shopping, Brighton has plenty of modern chain stores but they’re not the main attraction, the best shopping in the city is bright, breezy, independent and thrives on the creativity of local crafts people’s brilliance.

For that kind of shopping, you’ll want to visit The Lanes . An area of the city that brings a Bohemian Brighton to life and where between interesting stores, you’ll find fantastic cafes, restaurants and pubs. It’s one of the biggest draws for travellers to Brighton and deservedly so.

North Laine

Another shopping district that is distinct from “The Lanes” but is a “Laine” is North Laine. This is where the first-ever branch of The Body Shop, Anita Roddick was a local, was born and would go on to conquer the world.

The area is always changing as boutique stores come and go but that just adds to the joy of a visit to the North Laine – you never know precisely what you will find. A visitor might find it like being the retail exploration equivalent of Indiana Jones in the Jungle just without snakes, spiders and angry monkeys and with fantastic coffee shops and pubs, instead.

Old Steine Gardens

The Old Steine Gardens are in a place that was once known as Brighthelmstone before it was absorbed by the city of Brighton. The area would have been used for fishing but when Brighton began to become a tourist draw, Old Steine was one of the first to change.

Now, it’s a beautiful garden you can wander through and explore and there are several monuments of historical significance including the charming Victoria Fountain which was built to celebrate the 27th birthday of Queen Victoria. It was a private commission from the architect Amon Henry Wilds and is now a grade II listed structure of special importance to the national interest.

British Airways i360

The British Airways i360 is the youngest item on our list, it’s the newest addition to the Brighton skyline and the tallest observation tower with a vertical climb in the UK and offers an absolutely unbeatable view of the city and the surrounding areas.

In fact, on a good day, it’s said that you can see as far as the Isle of Wight from the top! It’s reasonably priced too (and we can thoroughly recommend combining a visit with a glass of champagne served at the top – because you’re worth it). If you want to wow your friends on Instagram don’t forget your camera.

The Devil’s Dyke

Everyone who comes to Brighton should spend some time on the South Downs which is Britain’s newest national park. One of the major highlights of The South Downs locally is the Devil’s Dyke which is walkable from Preston Park if you fancy a solid hike to get your fitness levels up.

The Dyke lies upon the South Downs Way an ancient footpath that has been in use for at least 2 millennia. It gets its name from a local rumour that says the devil and his w ife are buried in the two humps of the earth in the valley below.

St. Bartholomew’s Church

St. Bartholomew’s is one of several striking churches in Brighton but its neo-gothic building makes it, by far, the most recognizable and the one that most people want in their Instagram feed. It is considerably taller than the buildings around it and dominates the local landscape. It may if you exclude towers, steeples and spires is, be the “tallest church in England”.

It may look stark from the outside but inside it’s quite opulent and attractively designed. It’s also a superb venue for classical and other concerts thanks to some unique acoustic effects. Finally, it’s a Grade 1 listed building which makes it one of the most important buildings for the national heritage.

Brighton Pride

Brighton is world famous for its welcoming and permissive attitudes to the LGBTQ community and Kemptown is home to many of Brighton’s LGBTQ facilities, it’s also the home of Brighton Pride which is the largest Pride festival event in the United Kingdom.

In fact, it’s so popular that on Pride weekend, there will be more visitors in Brighton than there are citizens of Brighton! It’s a warm, welcoming, inclusive event that celebrates everything that the LGBTQ community has contributed to Brighton and the world. Don’t miss it.

Brighton Festival

The Brighton Festival is an annual event that runs for 3 weeks in May each year that celebrates the arts in Brighton. You’ll find music, dance, films, arts, literature, and even organized debates throughout the time it is on. It’s the South of England’s largest event of this type and it attracts artists and visitors from around the world.

Having said that, it’s worth noting that at least 30% of the exhibitors and artists are drawn from the local community, probably because Brighton has an incredibly active arts community. There’s something for everyone at the Brighton Festival and it’s a great event to explore.

The American Express Community Stadium

The American Express Community Stadium which was formerly known as The Falmer Stadium is the home of Brighton & Hove Albion FC and what could be more British than a day at the football? The team have shot up and down the leagues in the past, but they’re now firmly entrenched in the Premier League and this could be your chance to see some of the world’s best players hit the pitch.

If football’s not really your thing, they also host rugby matches at The American Express Community Stadium in Brighton. The stadium is big and modern and very comfortable to spend time in, it’s a real asset to the city and the community at large.

Sea Life Centre

The Sea Life Centre as it is known today is the country’s oldest aquarium and it opened its doors to the public in 1872. It has been refreshed many times over the years and currently houses over 5,500 different sea creatures and other forms of aquatic life.

You need to book tickets online before you go to get the best deals and make sure you have tickets for the glass-bottomed boat ride at the entrance because you cannot buy them at the ride itself. You’ll have a superb time with some of the most fascinating creatures on earth at The Sea Life Centre.

Hove Lagoon

Hove Lagoon is one of the best places in the country to learn watersports and they offer wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing, sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Even if you don’t intend to learn a sport yourself, it can be a great place to go and watch others go through their paces.

There is also a boating lake if you fancy a more relaxed time on the water and a skateboard park if the water’s just not your thing. The Big Beach Café at Hove Lagoon is very popular too. You can walk directly onto the beach in just a few minutes from the Lagoon.

The Level has won a Green Flag Award for its unique park space in the centre of Brighton. It’s one of the busiest parks in the city and is home to an amazing skate park which really draws in a huge amount of local talent in the skate scene.

There’s also a very pleasant set-up where you can play boules with friends or with other folks waiting to play too. You can chill out on the North Lawns or you can head to the Tomato Café for a bite to eat. It’s a really pleasant way to while away a day in Brighton.

So there you have it, our top 20 must-visit attractions in Brighton and they are all awesome. Brighton is a great place to come whether you’re seeking culture, arts, sports, nature and much more. There’s a reason that Brighton is one of the most popular places for tourists in the country outside of London and it’s because we’re lucky enough to have a huge range of attractions for people to enjoy.

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67 Fun Things to Do in Brighton, UK

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Skirting along England’s sparkling southern coastline — and a popular holiday destination for Londoners, locals and travelers alike — artsy, cultural, vibrant Brighton delivers entertainment and activity in spades.

Very much selling itself as a seaside resort city, this quirky getaway town blends the history of Sussex with a tantalizing foodie scene, a diverse arts culture, live events throughout the year — and more boutiques and marketplaces than a shopaholic would know what to do with.

Don’t let a little rain dampen your fun in Brighton! Some indoor activities include popping into the shops in funky Kemptown, getting trippy inside the Paradox Place House of Illusions, gazing at the art pieces inside the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, and why not, sampling the best restaurants at The Lanes.

Throw in the amazing nightlife with rooftop bars, classic English pubs and electric nightclubs and the proximity to natural attractions (don’t miss the Seven Sisters cliffs) — and it becomes clear that the variety of things to do in Brighton is nothing short of exemplary.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your seaside adventure!

1 – Ascend the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower

Located on the popular Brighton beachfront, the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower delivers panoramic views and a thrilling new perspective.

Ticket in hand, guests of all ages can take the relaxing 25-minute ride up to a height of almost 138 meters (450 feet), enjoying breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Brighton and the South Dawns along the way.

With a variety of unique packages to choose from — including a sky-high yoga class and a sparkling wine experience — the viewing tower is one of the ideal ways to kickstart any UK adventure.

• British Airways i360 tickets

2 – Discover the Royal Pavilion

A revered locale that is both historic and mightily enviable, a trip down to the Royal Pavilion offers visitors the chance to walk in the footsteps of 19th-century royalty — where the beauty of a seaside palace meets a colorful, fascinating past.

Throughout the sprawling campus, you’ll uncover a diverse architecture that has drawn influence from England, India and China (to name but a few), while exploring music rooms, saloons and lush gardens that sweep you into a life of yesterday.

With a variety of tours and packages available, led by local historians, this enchanting above offers the chance to be a part of living history.

• Royal Pavilion tickets

3 – Enjoy the view at Brighton Palace Pier

Oozing both history and excitement, thanks to first opening way back in 1899, the local favorite that Brighton Palace Pier is the ideal spot to spend a fun day under the sun.

After admiring the street performers and soaking the ocean view, you can venture inside to enjoy some of the pier’s most popular eateries and bars, and then take a stroll down the boardwalk and find a souvenir or two (ice cream cone in hand, of course).

Once you’ve gotten your fill of sweets, spend an hour or two at one of the many family-friendly attractions that the pier has to offer — the arcade, Midway games, sideshow entertainment, and thrilling roller coasters are sure to keep the kids (and kids at heart) occupied.

4 – Have a bite to eat at The Lanes

For all of the foodies looking to try out some local eateries, a walking food tour through The Lanes is an absolute must.

Led by an in-the-know local, you can experience signature seaside dishes from a variety of street vendors that are suited for vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike — and chat with some quirky locals along the way too.

The shopping and local food options — including staples like pies, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and some good old salted fish and chips — are a great way to experience the true nature of beloved Brighton.

• walking tours in Brighton

5 – Ride the dodgems or jump on trampolines at Brighton Pier

To really make the most of your time at the Brighton Pier, experiencing the rides and attractions is a must!

Thrill-seekers, you can get your adrenaline fix (and more) while riding the turbo coaster, while families can take things a little slower on the scenic carousel.

With rides (not to mention food and drink) offered for all age groups and a postcard-worthy view out onto the English Channel, there is no denying the allure of this popular landmark.

Pro tip: purchase your ride wristband online and get a discount!

6 – Stroll through Preston Park & Manor

Sitting about a 10-minute drive inland from the pier, and originally built in the 13th century, Preston Park Manor is one of the older residences of its kind and boasts an equally complex history.

Despite being over 700 years old, the estate has been up kept and modernized to reflect a current Edwardian style — one which guests can take a stroll through and admire up close!

Feel free to walk around at your own pace, check out the sprawling estate, the dozens of bedrooms, the dining halls and servant’s quarters, and don’t miss the lavish grand entrance hall.

And for all you paranormal enthusiasts, the manor is also said to be haunted by a few friendly ghosts!

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Experience a live concert by candlelight in Brighton

Catch live performances on piano, violin and cello of classical music and tributes to your favorite modern bands and musicians, from Coldplay to Hans Zimmer and Taylor Swift. Candlelight concerts take place in scenic venues across the city that don’t typically host concerts and events for an unforgettable backdrop to live renditions of your favorite tunes.

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7 – Venture on the hop-on-hop-off bus

Short on time? Can’t be bothered walking around? When days are limited, take advantage of the various Brighton bus tours to visit all of the most popular tourist destinations in one go!

Typically, tours run every hour and take visitors to a dozen unique landmarks located throughout the city — explore marvels like the Royal Pavilion, the Volks Bar and Club, and the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, to name a few.

Not only do you get an unobstructed view of the city from the double-decker bus (in true UK fashion), but you can also experience the centuries worth of history with complimentary audio narration.

• bus tours in Brighton

8 – Wander through the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

For those looking to experience refinement and culture, the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery screams a must-visit.

Spread across the multi-story building, art-savvy guests will be able to view a changing inventory of fine arts along with the centuries-old Egyptian artifacts from the land of pharaohs and kings.

Meanwhile, the museum’s interactive and educational side is brought to life through a variety of exhibits and events throughout the year from workshops to performances.

The traveling exhibits educate visitors about everything from the Stone Age and Roman influence on the region to the modern side of Brighton history.

9 – Jump on a bike for a seaside adventure

For many first-time visitors, the best way to experience the beauty of a new city is to simply be a part of it, and with so many Brighton locals skirting around on two wheels, taking a bike tour is a great way to do exactly that.

With a range of tours available that dive into the area’s rich culture and heritage, you can choose to take a scenic ride through vibrant seaside towns during the morning.

You can join an afternoon tour and experience the essence of Brighton with a few stops at pubs and eateries.

Craving adventure? The e-bike tour of the Seven Sisters cliffs is an exhilarating trip worth taking.

• bike tours in Brighton

10 – Marvel at the Lewes Castle & Museum

Truly a hidden gem located just outside of Brighton, the Lewes Castle & Museum stands as a testament to the history of a once magnificent stronghold.

After wandering around the grounds, ascend the winding staircases and explore the archaeological exhibits that highlight the history and culture of Sussex, and then wrap it up with a drink at the on-site cafe.

Oozing history and medieval-style architecture, it’s a great stop for any history buff.

Admission starts at £6.50 for adults and £3.20 for children and students.

11 – Shop around at the Brighton Open Market

And if you’ve got an eye (or appetite) for foodie-goodness, be sure not to miss out on sampling some of the local sweet treats at local gems like Rainbow Organic Chocolates or Real Patisserie.

When visiting the market, you will be supporting small local businesses as you try quality food and find handcrafted products. The market also plays host to a rotating calendar of local events that, best of all, are totally free!

12 – Meet the colorful residents at Sea Life Brighton

What trip to Brighton is complete without a visit to the world’s oldest functioning aquarium?

With over 5,000 diverse species of all different shapes, sizes, colors and origins to see up close (and, in some cases, touch or feed), there is something for the whole family to enjoy at Sea Life Brighton .

While visitors can certainly walk around at their own pace, many opt for a tour through the underwater tunnel, where they not only can come face to face with some of the most ominous sea creatures on earth, including sharks and stingrays but learn all about them too.

• SEA Life tickets

13 – Zoom through the air on the Brighton zipline!

For all of the thrill-seekers looking to take their trip to Brighton to the next level, look no further!

So long as you don’t drop the camera, amazing pictures and views from an entirely unique perspective await as you climb 32 meters and soar across the largest zip line on England’s south coast.

With options for single and dual rides (fantastic for parents with kids or romantics looking for some thrills), you and your friends can race each other all the way to the beach landing zone.

• zip lining in Brighton

14 – Wander around the Booth Museum of Natural History

Birds, mammals, and bones, oh my! The  Booth Museum of Natural History boasts a vast collection unlike any other.

With over 500,000 insects, 50,000 minerals, 30,000 unique plants and fossils that date back as far as 55 million years, this museum is no less than a living time capsule.

And it’s not just the artifacts that are historic, so is the building itself! Founded in 1874 with the help of private collectors, the museum now boasts a number of tour options that allow guests to view some of the world’s oldest creatures.

15 – Step into the world of magic at The Cauldron Brighton

Are you ready for a magical adventure? At The Cauldron Brighton, you can unleash your inner wizard and learn the art of potion-making with working magic wands!

You’ll receive a high-tech magic wand and learn how to cast a pouring spell to receive a welcome drink from a mythical creature. Your wand is the key to unlocking the magic of the space around you, so get ready to become the ultimate spell-caster!

Next, take a seat at a magic wand-interactive work station and start brewing two molecular cocktails with different properties and effects. With the guidance of expert mixologists, you’ll use science and technology to create your own potions and become a master of molecular mixology.

Grab your wand and let’s get brewing – The Cauldron Brighton is waiting for you!

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16 – Photograph the Upside Down House

Certainly, one of the most unique and photo-worthy locations on this list, the Upside Down House on the Brighton West Pier is an oddity that’s exactly what you’d expect: quite literally a house that is literally upside down.

From the outside, it’s a great photo op sure to light up the ‘gram; from the inside, visitors can observe the meticulously designed (upside-down) and head-scratching features.

Hot tip: Be sure to visit during the holidays to experience one of the Christmas or Halloween-themed homes.

17 – Eat Your way through a food tour

Whether you’re walking, biking, bussing, or even drinking your way around town, there are multiple food tours to choose from which dive into the traditional English fare and local staples.

From general tours that take in multiple spots and tastes to focused tours on things like street food or vegan cuisine, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the perfect culinary adventure for you.

Not sure where to start? The V.I.B, walking tour and food and beer tours let you sample all the local delicacies from hidden gems as opposed to busy tourist hot spots, while the beer and food tour is a great pre-game adventure before hitting the town.

• food tours in Brighton

18 – Relax and unwind at Queen’s Park

Need a break from a few days of non-stop sightseeing? If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, make a stop in the green-filled Queen’s Park .

Selling itself as the go-to spot for a relaxing walk, brisk cycling, or a casual game of tennis, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this 200-year-old, 15-acre slice of greenery.

Open to the public year-round, with plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas ideal for a snooze in the sun, guests can experience the beauty of simplicity as they take in the natural calm ambiance of the park and its wildlife.

19 – Putt around at Globalls

Ever wondered what Jurassic Park would look like as a rave? Well, at Globalls , you can see it for yourself and play some mini-golf too!

With three unique 12-hole indoor mini-golf courses, each littered with fluorescent creations (dinosaurs, sea creatures and animals, depending on your course) lit up by ultraviolet light. Your mission? Simple, really: finish the course without being too distracted by the fascinating creatures.

While you’re there, don’t miss the glow-in-the-dark bar (fancy a tipple, anyone?), where the drinks are just as colorful as the environment in which they’re served!

20 – Race around the city with a scavenger game

Whether you’re after an interesting activity for a bachelor(ette) party or a most engaging, fast-paced way of exploring Brighton – Amazing Race-style scavenger games are the way to go.

Led from the convenience of a phone, groups are tasked with racing around town, solving riddles and taking photos of themselves in various locations. The first team to return with all the answers (and proof) is declared the winner! Not only is this a great way to see Brighton, but it’s also perfect for building teamwork and problem-solving skills.

• scavenger games in Brighton

21 – Spend a day in nature at the Seven Sisters and South Downs

If you want to get out of the city and explore some of Brighton’s natural surroundings, a day trip to the Seven Sisters (consecutive, towering chalk sea cliffs) and South Downs (the hills and National Park on which they sit) is perfect.

Located just 30 minutes outside of Brighton by car, these postcard-worthy landscapes allow curious travelers to experience breathtaking seascapes and beautiful photo opportunities from dawn to dusk.

You’ll be able to take in sweeping views of the Sussex countryside from high up on the downland ridge, enjoy a picnic lunch among acres of wildflowers, and wander through what is the area’s newest National Park.

It’s an ideal trip for nature-lovers and hikers of all levels, and with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

22 – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sights of Stonehenge and Bath

Prepare for a magnificent experience exploring the historic sights of Stonehenge and Bath on a smooth day trip from Brighton!

Prepare for the 10-12 hour day trip early in the morning, and be transported in a climate-controlled bus, making your route through the stunning English countryside.

Get all the historical information while walking around Stonedge with an audio guide, and then at Bath, enjoy the sight of Roman baths that date back to 70 AD.

Bonus tip: when you’re at Stonehedge, stop inside the cafe and ask for the “rock cake”.

• Stonehenge and Bath day trips

23 – Mingle with monkeys and parrots at Drusillas Park

You can’t visit Brighton and not visit the best small zoo in Europe! Whether or not you’re traveling with kids in tow, there are several different play areas to explore and pass time.

They include Go Wild! (offering a hands-on mix of climbing, swinging and sliding activities) Go Bananas! and the jungle-themed Amazon Adventure, home to all kinds of beasts big and small.

If those aren’t enough, you can enjoy the splash pad, Hello-Kitty themed garden (surprisingly the first Hello Kitty-themed attraction in Europe) and Go Safari!, home to the popular Safari Express Train Ride.

24 – Shop around at North Laine

Itching to get your retail therapy fix? Take a trip down to the shopaholic haven that is North Laine — a former slum-turned bohemian zone where some 300 odd shops beckon in a half-square-mile area.

From quirky little boutiques to vintage stores and fashion retailers galore, with everything in between (including food and a magic shop) you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to where to spend your pounds!

Nestled in the Cultural District, you’ll also find the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery within walking distance.

25 – Do some kayaking

Travel 13 kilometers on River Arun, getting an eyeful of the quaint natural scenery nearby and a close look at the local wildlife.

For those in search of a unique experience, opt for the night kayaking experience. Encounter a glorious sunset as you take in the beautiful countryside atmosphere with your guide.

If you’re tight on time, do the 1-hour kayak session on Brighton Beach, beautifully taking in the Brighton Beach pier from the water.

Whether you’ve kayaked before or not, these kayaking experiences are beginner friendly and include safety briefings and a life vest.

• kayaking in Brighton

26 – Take the kids (or kids at heart) to the Brighton Toy and Model Museum

Having been around since 1991, the Brighton Toy and Model Museum isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill museum. It’s an interactive toy museum teeming with all kinds of toys from yesteryear, making it the perfect place to take your little ones for a day out.

From working model train layouts to construction kits, dolls houses and teddy bears, not to mention the Toy Museum Folk Club, it’s a haven for those who love their toys and history — guaranteed that your kids will enjoy it too!

27 – Find some shade in a Hove Beach Hut

We’ve all been there: taking a trip to the beach can sometimes be a hassle as you lug your chairs, towels, and snacks while looking for the ideal place the setup shop … only for a seagull to sweep away your chippies!

For those looking for a simpler way to soak in the sun and have fun at the beach, try renting a Hove Beach Hut — offering a cozy beach shelter with the option of modern-day conveniences.

You’ll find these convenient, Instagram-worthy shades at popular strips like Hove, Madeira Drive, Ovingdean, Rottingdean, and Saltdean.

28 – Go down a mesmerizing rabbit hole at the Paradox Place House of Illusions

Are you a fan of magic? (And let’s face it, who isn’t?) Then experiencing Paradox Place , which is one of the most intriguing things to do in Brighton, is perfect for you!

From historical magic tricks to Alice in Wonderland-style changes to the scenery, the whole place is an illusion that’ll have you mistrusting your own eyesight!

Every exhibit you step into launches you into a different illusion, from skydiving to becoming a live hologram; there’s an illusion and picture-perfect moment in every nook and cranny.

29 – Take a trip down to the Isle of Wight

A quintessential English village that looks like something out of a magazine, the Isle of Wight is a short ferry ride (or drive across the bridge) from Southampton and Portsmouth the south coast of England — about two hours away from Brighton.

Once you’re there, enjoy cycling and hiking trails that weave through picturesque villages (don’t miss Godshill). Take a stroll along the beaches of Alum Bay and soak in the natural beauty of The Needles and Spinnaker Tower.

Explore some of the landmark sites such as Carisbrooke Castle, a near-1,000-year old fortress steeped in history. Don’t forget to indulge in some local seafood while you’re there!

Hot tip: While you’re more than welcome to explore at your own pace, to take out all of the hassles of transports and organization, some travelers prefer to opt for the pre-arranged guided tour.

• Isle of Wight day trips from Brighton

30 – Mosey around the Brighton Fishing Museum

To really understand the history and culture of Brighton, a trip to the Brighton Fishing Museum , which explores the evolution of the town from fishing port to thriving tourist magnet, is quintessential.

This fishing quarter has been a staple in the community since the 1860s and now illustrates the advancement of fishing, boating, and the wider community throughout Brighton’s history.

Funded privately by the local fishing community, the museum features artifacts and souvenirs from the many fishermen that have stopped into the area over the years.

31 – Savor fine British food at the best restaurants

Vegans and vegetarians, your table is waiting for you at Kindling , featuring a menu comprised of the freshest dishes using locally grown ingredients.

Another farm-to-table foodie experience takes place at Wild Flor, where you can get your British dish fix, made with ingredients from local farmers.

Don’t know what you want just yet? Head to Shelter Hall – a food hall offering more than a couple of lunch items to indulge in, from tender steaks to international dishes.

All the cool kid’s going to Isaac Art, a contemporary restaurant featuring an extensive list of British wines to try.

32 – Compete for bragging rights at LaserZone

Imagine this: a rundown spacecraft crashed right into the heart of Brighton. Enemies have now overtaken West Street, and you need to get them all!

Bringing sci-fi combat to the real world, LaserZone provides 3000 square feet and multiple levels of galactic labyrinths for you and your group to run amok!

Defeat your enemies, score the most points, and reign victorious — a sublime activity and one of the best things to do in Brighton for a rainy day or anyone traveling with youngsters.

33 – Stroll around St. Ann’s Well Gardens

Home to a variety of native and exotic trees and flowers of all the colors of the rainbow, the St Ann’s Well Gardens is a beautiful sight to behold.

Walk around the expansive grounds, visit the fish pond, or feed one of the many grey squirrels that frequent the area.

Visit the sensory garden, perfect for meditation or reflection.

Far more than just a garden, St Ann’s also boasts a children’s playground, some tennis courts, and a quaint café — all combined, a relaxing afternoon awaits.

34 – Tantalize your sweet tooth at a chocolate tasting

Want a sweet ending to your trip to Brighton? Opt for a lavish chocolate tasting through the best chocolatiers and chocolate shops in Brighton!

For 2 hours, you’ll be chocolate hopping from sweet shop to chocolate shop, tasting a variety of exquisite chocolates, and enjoying a special tour discount if there are some chocolate goodies that you feel you cannot leave the UK without.

Other than the chocolate varieties, you’ll also be able to sample a few other sweets and chocolate drinks.

Pro tip: bring your best walking shoes as this is a walking tour.

• chocolate tasting tours in Brighton

35 – Hop aboard Volk’s Electric Railway

Combine history, a seaside view, and the joy of a train in one with Volk’s Electric Railway — the area’s oldest functional electric railway, operational for the majority of the year (closed in winter) for one-mile rides with truly stunning views.

Along the route, you’ll chug past popular places like Palace Pier (the original terminus) and the Black Rock station, providing you with an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Brighton’s most iconic monuments.

Tickets can be purchased in person.

36 – Paint the worries away at The Painting Pottery Cafe

Let out your artistic side as you paint your very own ceramic pot at The Painting Pottery Cafe .

As the name suggests, it’s all about releasing your inner artist on different pottery objects (which, of course, you can later take home as a souvenir)!

Choose from 100 different designs, or try to create one yourself if you dare. Even if you’re not the artistic type, there’s always the option to simply take a look at the exhibition to support local artists.

Make sure to book your spot ahead of time!

37 – Hit the bullseye with an archery outing

Whether you’ve dreamt of being Katniss Everdeen or representing your country at the Olympics, there’s an archery range just for you in Brighton where you can let the arrows fly.

Depending on your venue of choice, you’ll be able to choose between 2D targets and some moving 3D targets as well, so no matter your skill level, you’ll have the chance to improve on it.

For those who are just starting out, there’s plenty of helpful tips and advice on offer from expert coaches—and for seasoned pros looking for a new challenge or wanting some more pointers on their technique, that’s available too!

• archery in Brighton

38 – Hike around at Devil’s Dyke

Tucked away in the magnificent South Downs, Devil’s Dyke — as you might assume from the photo — is described as one of the most scenic locations in Brighton.

Shaped like a V, and descending some 100 meters into the valley below, the area around the Dyke offers widespread fields, vast hiking trails that are both challenging and rewarding yet accessible for almost anyone, and an abundance of wildlife to experience.

All combined, it’s the perfect (and a conveniently close) outdoor activity for the whole family to enjoy. So disconnect from your devices and take a step into nature as you explore the rolling foothills or marvel at the paragliders overhead!

39 – Pop into St. Bartholomew’s Church

Whether you want to confess your sins or admire the history of a 150-year-old church, a quick trip to St. Bartholomew’s is essential.

Just around the corner from the Brighton Open Market, the church is open to guests from Tuesday through to Saturday, with all welcome to mass as well.

But it’s not just about prayer and worship; at least traditionally, multiple events are thrown year-round, catering to locals as well as visitors. Just make sure to check out their events calendar to see what catches your eye!

40 – Feel free as a bird paragliding

Get ready to take off on the ride of your life when you book a paragliding experience from Brighton Beach, overlooking the pier, sea, and the city from above.

With the guidance of an instructor taking care of all the mechanical details, the pilot will take care of maneuvering the paraglide. All you have to do is sit back and relax, gliding through the skies like never before.

Different experiences include professional film and photography to be taken of your experience, perfect for sharing with friends on social media later!

The experience takes around 15-20 minutes.

• paragliding in Brighton

41 – See what’s on at Brighton Dome

With the artsy vibe of Brighton, it should come as no surprise that you can find world-class entertainment at almost any hour — from ballet to rock concerts and comedy nights.

If there’s something on the stage, you’ll likely be able to see it in one of Brighton Dome ‘s three main venues: Concert Hall, the Corn Exchange and the Studio Theatre.

If you love Broadway, then you’ll love the 600 odd year-round! And, for all your art and history buffs, the old building (dating back to 1867) houses one of the area’s most prolific arts charities.

42 – Explore vibrant Kemptown

Sporting rainbow flags, vintage fashion boutiques, and a whole lot of hip style Kemptown is an eclectic mix of fashion, fun, and history.

The ‘Gay Quarter’ hosts the Brighton flea market on its High-Street shopping area, where you’ll find no shortage of retro fashion, unique furniture, and quirky souvenirs.

Once you’re all tuckered out from shopping, the myriad cafes, delis, and bars welcome guests with open arms for a cheeky refreshment!

Be sure to check out the Brighton Kemptown Flea Market for a mixed bag of items!

43 – Grab the popcorn at the Brighton Film Festival

Cinephiles, listen up! If you happen to be venturing through Sussex in spring, add the notorious Film Festival to the top of your list of the things to do in Brighton.

While there are year-round special events such as premieres, previews and Q&A sessions, the crux of the festival, a two-week film fiesta in May, is where the movie magic really happens.

Simply check the website to see what’s gracing the silver screen during your visit, as well as which venues to go to for film showings.

44 – Gallop over to Brighton Racecourse

Nothing beats an exciting day at a racecourse and, ask any local and they’ll yell it from the rooftops: Brighton boasts one of the most scenic tracks in England — a mainstay attraction for both racing and events for the better part of 250 years.

Located right on the banks of the English Channel, the Brighton Racecourse invites visitors young and old for a day of excitement.

Sample the variety of delectable food and drink options that cater to any budget, take a tour of the racecourse, cheer on the horses, or even test your luck and throw down a bet or two on lucky number 7 (or 13?).

45 – Crawl around town with a pub crawl

Want to try the best of pubs without having to research them yourself? Go on a pub crawl and find yourself in a group of like-minded individuals (read: thirsty socialites) looking to get, well, just the right amount of hammered.

If you’re a student, there’s a separate pub crawl to get you acquainted with the very best pubs for you to frequent! Meanwhile, other options are curated for foodies and sightseers alike.

Receive VIP entry, win swag as you win pub trivia, and make some of the best memories!

• pub crawls in Brighton

46 – Button-mash at World’s End

Gamers, listen up! Hidden away from the main haunts up in Round Hill, The World’s End is a pub and arcade bar with a vast collection of the best retro arcade games, escape rooms and the remote control cars!

Kickstart the night by fueling up with a variety of craft brews, juicy burgers, and other bar snacks, and then play the night away to your heart’s content!

Fancy a quiet evening? Just grab a board game or two. Hunting for something rowdier? Check out when the DJs are playing, and button-bash with a few beers in hand!

47 – Get a tan at Brighton Beach

The beaches of Brighton have a reputation of being some of the most popular in all of South England, and once you plonk down on the golden sands, there is no doubt you’ll see why.

There are several attractions to choose from within walking distance: that take a dip into the ocean, try out stand-up paddle-boarding , or get some air during a kite-surfing lesson — either way, be sure to end the day with a cold drink as you soak in the beautiful sunset.

Directions in Google Maps

48 – Take in the beauty of the Bandstand

However, if tying the knot isn’t on the agenda, visitors can still embrace the beauty of the 140-year-old seafront landmark with regular afternoon performances (typically around 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.) from June to August.

Once you’re done with the performance, you can visit the Bandstand Cafe for a quick tea (it is the UK after all) before you leave!

49 – Take a swing at one of the many Brighton golf courses

Need to work on your drive?

Some of Brighton’s greatest assets are the numerous 5-star golf courses — with panoramic views, sea breezes and unique course layouts that challenge even the most seasoned pros. Taking some time to experience one of the many courses is a must for sports fanatics!

If you’re not sure where to start, some of the highest-rated courses in Brighton include Hollingbury Park, East Brighton and Dyke Golf Club — each offering its own set of challenges, stunning backdrops and clubhouse facilities for golfers to enjoy.

For affordability, head to Hollingbury; for luxury, head to Dyke; and for a little bit of both, East Brighton ticks a lot of boxes.

50 – Listen to live music at Concorde 2

One of the most iconic music venues in all of the UK, Concorde plays host to some huge names on its stage (both up-and-coming and established).

Whether it’s rock, indie or pop that you’re in to — be sure to catch a gig at this historic landmark.

The award-winning entertainment venue (sometimes a pumping nightclub, sometimes a concert venue) has hosts some top-name bands of every genre imaginable.

Tributes to names like the Foo Fighters, the Doors and Nirvana have graced the stage, while the nightclub puts on regular themed nights to boot (ABBA and Jungle-themed, to name just a couple).

51 – Catch a show at The Brighton Centre

Notably, the biggest entertainment and exhibition center in Southern England — hidden in plain sight on the city’s beautiful seafront — the Brighton Center can host everything from large-scale conferences to rock concerts, ballet shows and more.

Capable of holding nearly 5,000 guests, the auditorium has welcomed big names for decades. Just to give you a taste, everyone from comedy icons such as Jack Whitehall to infamous musicians like James Blunt graced the stage.

Not to mention that it hosted Broadway shows like Mamma Mia! and larger events along the lines of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to the Brighton Centre each year!

52 – Test your aim with a Brighton shooting experience

Ever shot an air rifle? If not, now’s your chance! If you’re looking to test your shooting ability, take a trip over to one of Brighton’s various shooting ranges where you can practice hitting a bullseye with a bow and arrow, an ax, or the classic air rifle.

With trained instructors on-site to show the ropes to shooters of any skill level, it’s easier than most realize to hit the target.

Traveling with a group? The ranges also offer private event bookings (did someone say stag party?).

• shooting experiences in Brighton

53 – Play some beach volleyball at Yellowave

Tucking into some fish and chips on the beach is a must-do when in Brighton, but if you’re looking for something seaside that’s a bit more active, why not check out Yellowave — an artificial beach sandwiched between the Pier and the Marina.

This pop-up beach bar and club typically welcomes volleyballers (with six bookable courts), but it is also known to transition into a beach soccer and beach rugby field!

After a couple of hours of beach sports, you can grab a bite at Barefoot Cafe and soak in the sunset. What’s not to love?

54 – Catch a movie at Luna Beach Cinema

There’s nothing more invigorating than a stiff sea breeze as you sit under the stars, popcorn in hand, with a classic flick on the big screen.

Over at the Luna Beach Cinema , right next to the Brighton Palace Pier, moviegoers are blessed with a truly unique cinematic experience.

Not only can you enjoy a movie surrounded by the sounds and smells of the ocean, but if the weather takes a turn for the worse (or you just want to save your spot).

Luna Beach Cinema also has bookable heated seating areas, hammocks and blankets available!

55 – Find a quirky souvenir at Snoopers Paradise

A flea market emporium like none other, Snooper Paradise is the culmination of some 90 different stalls that sell all sorts of weird and wonderful antiques, knick-knacks and souvenirs.

Spread across a whopping 7000 square feet, you’ll uncover everything from taxidermy to vintage clothes, old-school bridal gowns, and bizarre jewelry if you’re looking for a Brighton-themed gift that’s a little bit different, this is the place to go!

Vendors aside, with so many quirky shopfronts and bright colors, it’s become a bit of an Instagram haven in recent years too.

56 – Laugh out loud at the Secret Comedy Club

After words spread like wildfire of the sidesplitting acts that regularly graced this Brighton locale, the Secret Comedy Club is no longer a secret but a well-known spot to see some of the best in British comedy.

What was once a small basement show that happened once a week now has something happening at least 5 days a week!

So grab an ice-cold beer at the bar and take a seat (although not in the front row, unless you want to be a become part of the show) for a guaranteed night full of laughs.

57 – Sit front for at the Theatre Royal Brighton

Looking for something a little more sophisticated than your typical pub-crawl night on the town?

Then head to the Theatre Royal Brighton — whether you’re into toe-tapping musicals, homegrown plays, opera, or elegant ballet performances, the theatre hosts a wide range of events to suit all kinds of tastes.

So dress to the nines and head over to spend a night reveling in the arts in what’s undisputedly one of the essential things to do in Brighton!

You can buy tickets both online or at the box office.

58 – Sing your heart out at Lucky Voice

Because who doesn’t love a rowdy night of karaoke?

Whether you’re go-to is ABBA, The Killers, Celene Dion or the Backstreet Boys, at Lucky Voice , you can forget about the stagefright of performing in a packed venue.

Thanks to the option to rent your own room — two hours of singing your heart out with your friends without judgment await!

With the capacity to fit up to 30 people, it’s one of the no-brainer things to do in Brighton for parties or bigger groups. And, somewhat bizarrely for a karaoke bar, it also dishes up a killer brunch menu!

59 – Try out axe throwing!

Want to let out some frustration or just pretend to be a Viking for an afternoon? Why not throw an axe around in Brighton and roleplay for a bit?

Far more than just throwing an old-school Tomahawk at a target, the outdoor Brighton ranges offer many different weapons to choose from: start with a small ninja axe, try your hand at throwing knives or throwing torpedos, test out a Bear Grills hunting axe, hammerhead axes, fireman axe, or even an ice pickaxe!

And if that wasn’t enough to get the adrenaline up, with multiple styles of large double-handed axes, you’ll be sure to get a good workout.

Of course, safety is paramount — the ranges have trainer instructors on hand to ensure that you not only have a great time but stay safe while doing so!

• axe throwing in Brighton

60 – Wet your whistle at a rooftop bar

Combine a killer sunset with an ice-cold beer at some of the city’s very best rooftop bars — a great way to kickstart a potential wild night on the town.

Over at No. 32 in The Lanes, you’ll find a delicious brunch menu if you’re looking for something more casual, as well as a broad wine list and a cocktail menu suited to an afternoon tipple.

Grand Central, on the other hand, toward the center of town, is far more laidback, with Insta-worthy murals and a no-frills deck allowing the craft beer and conversation to become the main event.

For something a little more high energy, The Mesmerist (also in The Lanes) welcomes DJs and regular live music, while some of Brighton’s most coveted cocktails and views can be found at Lion and the Lobster , and Rockwater Hove !

61 – Watch a football match at the American Express Community Stadium

If you’re truly a sports nut then skipping the Amex Stadium — home to Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion — is a sin. On match day, the fans are as passionate as any, delivering a stadium-wide roar that’s deafening.

However, outside of the scheduled kickoffs, visitors can still take an eye-opening stadium tour which grants access to typically unseen parts such as the director’s lounge and media conference suite.

Learn a bit more about the history of the 120-year-old Seagulls and enjoy a refreshing drink at Dick’s Bar, and don’t forget to grab a souvenir from the on-site superstore!

62 – Join in on the fun at the Brighton Festival

Held every May, the Brighton Festival is a massive celebration of arts and culture that sees everything from acclaimed theatre to film screening, dance performances and literature take over the city.

Featuring both free and ticketed events (indoors as well as outdoors), there’s something for everyone at this month-long festival — even if you’re not sure what you’re into!

Just check the website to see what tickles your fancy, and be sure to book ahead as the most coveted performances often sell out.

63 – Enjoy dinner and a Drag Show

Enjoying a laugh-till-you-cry drag show in Brighton, featuring local drag queens putting on one heck of a show to be remembered for years to come.

With dozens of drag shows to choose from, you can choose anything from a brunch and a drag show, or dinner and a drag show.

When you book your tickets in advance, your ticket will also include unlimited drinks with your Thai dinner option, further adding to the fun!

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, or you’re going for fun, you’ll have the best time at the show!

• drag show in Brighton

64 – Drink away the night at the city’s best breweries

It wouldn’t be a trip to Brighton (or the UK, for that matter) if there wasn’t at least a handful of beers involved, right?

It might be stereotypical, but that doesn’t mean that Brighton doesn’t deliver some of the nation’s very best craft beer pubs in spades.

Whether it’s the North Laine for a nightclub turned pub vibe or Prince Albert for the grungy live music and beer, there’s plenty to choose from.

If you’re after big, hoppy, US-style beers, look no further than The Evening Star on Surrey Street, while Brighton Rocks in Kempton serves its lengthy list of ales alongside a hefty and impressive cocktail selection.

Still thirsty? The Southover offers a range of local beers from the Sussex region, and the aptly-named Brighton Beer Dispensary has become famous for its “mystery” light and dark beers — think you can guess what’s in them?

There’s only one way to find out …

65 – Dance the night away at Proud Cabaret

One for the party-goers, if you’re looking for dinner with a show, Proud Cabaret has a set of variety shows just for you. Despite the name, burlesque and cabaret are the very least of what you’ll experience in this plush ballroom!

Get some great food, enjoy a compelling show (with no shortage of audience interaction) and revel in the glittering lights and special effects. After a wine or two, if you’re brave enough, jump onto the dance floor yourself!

Buy tickets for an upcoming show on the club’s website.

66 – Test your luck at the Rendezvous Casino

Vegas comes to Brighton in the form of the Rendezvous Casino ! The casino is open 24/7, offering the chance to engage in a little risk with table games like Blackjack and Roulette, as well as pokie machines out the wazoo.

Plus, with bars and entertainment never too far away, it’s easy to spend an evening (or two) enjoying the high-stakes action.

In between wins, head to in-house restaurants to refuel, or the bar for the signature cocktail!

Hot tip: Before you go, set a limit.

67 – Rock the dancefloor at a nightclub

If you thought Brighton went to sleep after sunset, then you’ve not been to the right pubs.

The quaint seaside has some of the best nightclubs, including PRYZM , Popworld , Club Revenge and The Arch , just to name a few!

Whether you’re into commercial pop, 70’s karaoke full of nostalgia, or an LGBTQ-friendly space to let your guard down without judgment, Brighton has them all.

So down a couple of shots, put on your dancing shoes and enjoy one of the more underrated things to do in Brighton!

Where to stay in Brighton?

Visitors have a plethora of choices for where to stay and some of the best and most luxurious hotels in Brighton and Hove are right on the seafront.

These include The Grand Brighton , Red Brighton Blue (800 meters from The Royal Pavilion), Malmaison Brighton (overlooking the Marina), and Hotel Pelirocco — within walking distance of the water, guests can easily get to all the most coveted tourist spots from any of these lavish abodes.

A stone’s throw from the shortline, The Grand Brighton Hotel oozes opulence, history, and stunning views all at once, with an acclaimed seafood restaurant and a well-stocked bar to boot.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are plenty of well-rated hostels in the city. Crowd favorites include Seadragon Backpackers and Happy Brighton , known for their great atmosphere, free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Finally, if you’re wanting to stay in a more residential or less central area of Brighton, there are still plenty of hotels to choose from.

A couple of great options are the Cappadocia Guest House in North Laine or Jurys Inn Waterfront over in the residential New England Quarter, each of which offers spacious rooms and modern amenities at fantastic rates.

• best hotels in Brighton

Where to go next?

After you’ve explored all there is to do and see in Brighton, why not hop on a train and explore the rest of what the UK has to offer ?

Music lovers and history buffs, Liverpool is calling your name! Indulge in Beatles’ history, starting with a selfie with the OG Fab Four’s statue at Pier Head, to climbing the stunning Royal Liver Building for panoramic views of the docks, sea, and the city.

Edinburgh charms visitors with its historic architecture, towering castles, and breathtaking nature. Take a walk through Royal Mile, peeking into the quaint shops, or head to the iconic Calton Hill for the perfect picture of the city.

You can’t mention the UK without mentioning London , and it’s an endless list of things to do and see. From a stunning view of the city with dinner at The Shard to visiting the English Parliament, and walking across the famous Tower Bridge.

Final thoughts

With all these ideas, we hope we gave you some inspiration to start planning your fabulous trip to Brighton!

From the fun you can get on with at Brighton Pier, to finding local knick knacks at the Brighton Open Market, and escaping to Seven Sisters, we hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Brighton.

Happy travels!

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » 23 Charming Things to Do in Brighton, UK

23 Charming Things to Do in Brighton, UK

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Here Are Some Great Things To Do In Brighton!

Exploring the southern coast of the UK? The lively city of Brighton might make for a great stop!

From the historic Brighton Palace Pier to shopping “The Lanes”, its wild nightlife, the sunny beach, and museums, this seaside city has loads of things to do during the day and at night!

We really like Brighton. Having worked down in East Sussex for years, Eric has been to Brighton a bunch of times over the years – and together we’ve been once. That said, it’s only a quick trip by train/car from London to the coast.

This makes Brighton (and the surrounding area of Hove) a great day London trip ! So, whether you are looking for free things, paid things, or romantic things to do in Brighton, we’ve got you covered!

Here are 23 things to do in Brighton for solo travellers, couples, and families with kids!

Brighton Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Summer is hot but busy. Shoulder season of May/June or September for pleasant weather and less people.

Getting Around:  Very walkable (especially by the Pier & Beach), Brighton + Hove bus for distances. This Brighton Bike Tour might be a great idea!

Top Things to Do:  Explore the Famous Palace Pier, visit the Royal Pavilion , ride the Brighton i360 Tower , experience the Brighton Beach Zip Line .

Where to Stay:   The Grand Hotel Brighton for classic beachfront views, e Queens Hotel & Spa for beach and pier proximity, and lovely Hotel Una for a beautiful hotel overlooking famous Regency Square!

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Brighton, UK

Okay, let’s dive into the top things to do all over the city!

This is a pretty good list of the popular things (and a few smaller gems) but we will add to it as we get back and explore!

Visit The Historic Brighton Palace Pier

Address: Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1TW, UK

There is perhaps nothing more synonymous with the Brighton sunshine and waterfront than the Brighton Palace Pier.

The first pier was actually built back in 1823 and was just a chain pier for docking ships. Over time, small food and souvenir shops were added and it became more of a fun than a functional place.

Over the years, storms damaged the old pier and the current pier (as we see today) was opened in 1899.

Today, the pier has been named one of “the finest piers in the world” which is quite the distinction!

The pier is free to enter and walk about  (it wasn’t always free). At over 1,700 feet long, there’s plenty of pier to walk along!

While much of the pier has been upgraded to modern games and food stalls, the decor remains largely from the old days. This is what gives the pier that classic charm!

In the middle, there is a large arcade with loads of old and new games. You can earn tickets to buy prizes – and this is a very popular thing to do with kids!

We played a few games when we were there a couple of years ago and had a blast. At the end of the Pier, you will find a small amusement park with rides for kids and adults.

There’s everything from a small roller coaster to bumper cars and a hunted house ride! 

As for food, there are stalls for famous fish and chips as well as ice cream, coffee, a beer, and loads of other sweet treats you can dream of.

The best part of the pier is the fact that there are deck chairs that are free to use – as long as you can find one that is currently unoccupied.

Overall, the Brighton Palace Pier is an absolute must-see when you visit. It is lovely and representative of the city’s seaside identity.

With something for everyone – for the adults and especially for the kids – go and enjoy the sunshine down at the Palace Pier!

Our Tip: If you want to enjoy the Pier (and the rest of Brighton) you should consider booking a local Brighton guide for a casual tour of the city!

Relax At The Brighton Beach & Boardwalk

Address: Along Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1ET, UK

Another of the main attractions in the seaside town of Brighton is – of course – the massive Brighton Beach and boardwalk!

Following basically the entire length of the city’s waterfront, the beach in Brighton has been influential in shaping the city from an old fishing port to a thriving resort city.

The beach itself is made of small pebbles so it’s not actually sand – but honestly, they are quite nice to sit on AND you don’t get sand everywhere when you do go for a swim and have to clean up the towels to leave of the day!

The beach itself is pretty regulated with life-guarding stations and swimming flags to follow. Make sure you do follow the rules because the currents at this part of the coast can be dangerous.

On the beach, you’ll find deck chairs for rent (whereas on the Pier they are free to use) so keep that in mind if you want a chair.

The beach is also nice because it’s very large – meaning that there’s room for everyone to have their own personal space no matter how busy the place gets (even in the summer).

Just behind the beach is the main roadway and walking boardwalk. This walking path at road level and beach level is absolutely loaded with things to do and check out.

From shops and restaurants to activities like zip-lining and mini-golf, there is something for everyone.

Get your Brighton Zip Line Experience Ticket in advance !

There are even sports courts, a carousel for kids, and other attractions like SEA Life and the Brighton Fishing Museum (see both below in this post). 

At times, the boardwalk is almost overwhelming because there’s so much to see so just take your time, slow your walk, and enjoy the waterfront art, food, music, beer, whatever!

While you are walking along, you will also see a metal structure in the water. This is called West Pier which was an old pier. It fell into despair and the remains burnt down in 2003.

That said, the place where it met the land is now used for the base for the i360 Tower!

Experience The British Airways i360

Address: Lower Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2LN, UK

Speaking of the i360 Tower, how about a ride up over 138 metres to see the English coastline and beyond!

Sponsored by British Airways, the i360 is actually a vertical observation deck that pulls riders up via cable in a giant donut-shaped observation deck.

The best part? The ride lasts for 30 minutes and the platform is also a bar which means you can have a drink (glass of champagne) up in the sky!

If you know that you want to go up the tower for the awesome experience, you can buy your i360 tower ticket in advance .

This is a good idea since crowds in the summer are big and there is only so much space for people on each ride.

Keep that in mind for when you visit! You can also visit the base where you can find a gift shop and a small restaurant/cafe.

Wanna feel Adrenaline ? You can Walk on Top the i360 Tower Pod as it goes up 138 metres!

Explore the Royal Pavilion & Pavilion Gardens

Address: 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton BN1 1EE, UK

Another of the top attractions in Brighton is no doubt the Royal Pavillion.

Originally built beginning in 1787 as a private royal residence for George, Prince of Wales, the Palace has been added to and used for different functions over the years (it was a wartime hospital, actually).

The unique architecture is unlike other buildings in Britain – this is a nod to the Indo-Saracenic style found in India!

Today, the Palace is a top attraction owned by the city of Brighton which you can go inside and tour.

There are many lavishly decorated rooms with old furniture, artwork, and other statement pieces from centuries ago.

The audio guide is worth the price to learn about the history and there’s a terrace tea room where you can overlook the grounds, too!

The grounds themselves are quite beautiful and have a few other things to check out. They even put on a skating rink in the wintertime!

In any case, if you want to visit the Royal Pavilion, you can check here for your Royal Pavilion admission ticket .

Once you are on the grounds, you don’t have to enter the Pavilion. You can simply walk about the Pavilion Gardens and enjoy your surroundings.

The gardens/grounds are full of well-groomed paths which wind through different areas with flowers throughout.

Eric just found a spot on the lovely grass (along with many, many others) and just enjoyed a bit of a lay down in the sunshine. 

If you explore the gardens enough, you’ll come across a popular little cafe that basically borders the downtown area known as The Lanes.

On the day Eric visited, there were loads of people having a drink or a small bite to eat (shown above). The atmosphere was just really lovely so definitely check them out when you visit!

Wander The Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Address: 12A Pavilion Parade, Brighton BN1 1EE, UK

Located in the Royal Pavilion Gardens, the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery was originally opened in 1861.

The collection of town art, worldly pieces, and natural history specimens outgrew their space quickly. The Museum was moved to the present site in 1873 and hasn’t looked back since!

Today, you can visit the museum – redone in recent years – to explore various exhibits ranging from photography to ancient artefacts, fine art, fashion, and rotating exhibits focussed on modern culture, Brighton’s history, and more!

Basically, check it out because there is something for all interests inside.

Dive Into SEA LIFE Brighton

Address: Marine Parade, Brighton BN2 1TB, UK

Opened all the way back in 1872, SEA LIFE Brighton is actually the oldest working aquarium in the world!

Located right down on the boardwalk very close to the famous Palace Pier, you can dive in (pun intended) to this underwater world.

The exhibits are under the main boardwalk – with historic stone arches making for a cool experience. 

Inside, SEA LIFE has over 150 different species – from sharks to turtles and crabs to many, many fish. Kids can touch some in the interactive part.

You can also walk under the massive central tank in the glass tunnels or float above them in a glass-bottom boat! If you want to visit SEA LIFE, you can get your SEA LIFE Brighton Admission ticket here .

Personally, we are not fans of aquariums ourselves and have not visited SEA Life in Brighton.

However, since it is the oldest aquarium in the world, we decided to mention it in this post. Please do your research and decide for yourself if you want to visit this attraction. 

Lounge At Preston Park & Preston Manor

Address: Preston Rd, Brighton BN1 6SD, UK

Should you be looking for yet another historical experience in Brighton, check out Preston Manor . Located in what was the old village of Preston, it’s now part of the city of Brighton.

The manor itself has been built in phases – from the original building in the 13th century to a large chunk completed in 1738.

These days, the manor house is a museum showing a great example of upper-class life during the Edwardian Era.

Located outside the city centre a little bit, Preston Manor is still easy to get to via bus or car. If you are visiting Preston Manor, you’ll likely also want to check out Preston Park.

As one of Brighton’s largest green spaces, Preston Park has loads of lovely paths, a pond, cafes, bowling lawns, and more.

You’ll also find the old Preston Park velodrome – an unevenly shaped cycling loop once used for competitions (and prone to controversy over its shape)!

Ride Volk’s Electric Railway

Address: Volk’s Electric Railway Visitor Centre, Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1EN, UK

Want to ride the oldest electronic railway in the world?! Then head for the Brighton waterfront for Volk’s Electric Railway .

Created by local inventor Magnus Volk, the railway line was opened in 1883 and hasn’t missed a beat since!

Eric visited Brighton and on that particular saturday the railway was closed.

Unfortunately for him, crews were doing maintenance and cleaning up garbage around the waterfront area. Maybe you will have better luck riding when you visit?

The train ride seems great for kids – and it actually takes you all the way to the Brighton Marina along the waterfront so it DOES also serve a practical function from March to October.

Shop The Lanes & North Laine

Address: The Lanes, Brighton, UK + North Laine, Brighton, UK

If you are into shopping (and even if you aren’t), you’ll likely end up wandering the Lanes.

Located just back from the waterfront to the west of the main Palace Pier, the Lanes are Brighton’s central “downtown” shopping core.

The winding streets and hills make for an interesting walk through all the big brand shops you’d expect to find with a few boutique ones, too.

There are also places to eat, drink, and just hang out to people watch. 

At the top of the Lanes (close to the Churchill Square Shopping Centre), you’ll find something called the Jubilee Clock Tower (shown above).

Built in 1888 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, it’s an old clock tower which is pretty to look at (locals either love it or hate it) – and is functional, too!

It’s also just a good way to get your bearings as you wander about that area of the city.

Brighton is a city of “communities” with many different neighbourhoods making up one big city. Another historical area to check out in Brighton is North Laine.

Located north of the Lanes (main shopping area) and very close to the Brighton train station, this Bohemian neighbourhood is absolutely loaded with boutique shops and more cafes than you could visit in a whole month!

The roads/alleys make up a giant grid system with nice architecture throughout – so just wander through for the experience… but you’ll likely be drawn into SOME shop that suits your interests!

Eric didn’t have time to stop anywhere when he last visited but he scouted out cafes for when we go back together!

Visit Brighton Dome

Address: Church St, Brighton BN1 1UE, UK

If you wander Brighton near the Royal Pavilion, you might notice a beautiful looking building called the Brighton Dome .

This is one of Brighton’s premier art venues where they host over 600 art performances from music to comedy, spoken word and more!

Aside from having a show that might interest you when you visit, the Brighton Dome also plays a huge role in putting on one of the most celebrated arts festivals in the UK –  the Brighton Festival!

When you walk by, you might notice just how beautiful the building is – this is because it has over 200 years of history tucked away!

The venue was once built as stables for the horses of Prince Regent. Over time, the venue has transformed into a skating rink and a military hospital during the First World War.

You can even do tours of the building if the history fascinated you enough!

Explore The Brighton Fishing Museum

Address: Kings Road Arches, 201, Brighton BN1 1NB, UK

A really neat museum to check out at the Brighton waterfront is the Brighton Fishing Museum .

With free admission and a whole fishing boat tucked away inside, this small museum is worth checking out.

Eric wandered in and ended up staying for quite a while reading the information and looking at the historic photos from decades and decades ago! 

As we said, admission is free but you can make a small donation at the door.

If you are travelling to Brighton with kids, this might be a good place to check out.

This is because there’s old footage being played inside alongside artefacts like a ship’s wheel, colourful signs, model boats, and the 27-foot “clinker-built punt boat” fishing boat in the main hall!

Discover The Booth Museum Of Natural History

Address: 194 Dyke Rd, Brighton BN1 5AA, UK

In case you want to learn a little bit while you are in Brighton, check out the Booth Museum of Natural History !

It was originally opened in 1874 by Edward Thomas Booth as the Booth Museum (hence the name).

This colourful museum is full of bird, butterfly, and insect specimens along with fossils, minerals, and other bones that have been added over the years!

Today, with over 500,000 specimens, the Museum is among the largest collections of British birds in the country!

It was designated a Natural History Museum in the 1970s and is still considered a trendsetter as one of the first museums to utilize “Victorian-style dioramas” – meaning the specimens were depicted usually in action and with natural decor so that visitors could observe them in their “natural habitat”.

Browse The Brighton Open Market

Address: Marshalls Row, Brighton and Hove BN1 4JU, UK

Given that Brighton has a vibrant creative, alternative art scene, it makes sense that there is a marketplace to serve the needs of an inclusive community.

Enter: The Open Market ! This large indoor venue is full of shops and stalls that sell everything under the sun – and we mean everything!

From coffee shops and places to eat to stalls selling soap, honey, old signs, and more – you can find loads of interesting things at the Market.

Eric wandered through the bottom level and it was great to see people hanging out, buying local, and creating a sense of community!

Located just a short walk from the Brighton Train Station, we’d recommend a visit because you never know what you might find!

Check Out artrepublic Brighton Gallery

Address: 13 Bond St, Brighton BN1 1RD, UK

Again, if artwork is your thing, Brighton is the place for you. Located in North Laine, you can find a colourful gallery by artrepublic – a place curated by experts with an eye for art with over 25 years of experience.

The gallery in Brighton is known to have one of the largest collections of limited edition contemporary art prints in Britain!

Just go in and have a wander around – you’ll find some pretty big names up on the wall!

Visit St. Peter’s Church

Address: York Pl, Brighton BN1 4GU, UK

If checking out churches is your thing, Brighton has a few which stand out. You’ll find St. Peter’s Church located just a short walk from the waterfront (on the way to the Open Market).

Built in the 1820s in pre-Victorian Gothic Revival architectural style, the church is unofficially known as “Brighton’s Cathedral” – and it was under renovation when Eric visited!

In any case, you can learn more about visiting the church here .

If you’re really into churches, St Bartholomew’s Church is another one that you might want to check out.

The church was built back in the 1870s and Eric stumbled upon this brick marvel while walking back from the Open Market.

He didn’t pop inside but the detail from the outside was unexpected and really something!

There’s a popular Brighton food tour that leaves from nearby to St. Bartholomew’s!

Attend The Brighton Centre

Address:  Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2GR, UK

If you’re in the mood for a bit of performance fun, then you might want to check out what’s going on at the Brighton Centre .

This massive complex is one of Brighton’s largest venues for music, comedy, and other meetings of national importance.

Located right down along the Brighton waterfront, there’s usually something going on most times of the year so check out the website to see if there’s a show that interests you!

Explore The Brighton Toy And Model Museum

Address: 52-55 Trafalgar St, Brighton BN1 4EB, UK

If looking at toys, toys, and more toys is your thing – or you’re travelling to Brighton with kids – then the Brighton Toy & Model Museum is definitely for you!

Located just under the train tracks of Brighton Station, you’ll see the red signs to enter. Inside this first area (where you buy tickets) you will already get a sense of the sheer number of toys they have on display.

It’s so colourful – it’s really sensory overload! Eric ran out of time and didn’t go all the way inside but we will when we return to Brighton. Would be worth it to see over 10,000 items!

Lounge In The Level Gardens

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/P6rkD6DGPuz3ntqg8

Lounging in the green spaces around Brighton is not a difficult feat to accomplish – even if you find yourself north of the water quite a ways!

Located right across the street from the east entrance of the Open Market, The Level is a massive green space with something for everyone.

As one of the oldest public spaces in all of Brighton, The Level has a rich history dating back to the 18th century!

These days, inside the space – quiet and protected from the busy streets – you can find kids’ play areas, a skate park, fountains, and green lawns for lounging.

There’s even a cafe onsite should you get a bit of hunger creeping up! The Level is such an important community space that you can check online to see what’s going on.

Get Locked Away At The Old Police Cells Museum

Address: Town Hall, Brighton BN1 1JA, UK

Looking to get your fix of Brighton history and crime all in one? Visit the Old Prison Cells Museum !

Located in the basement of Brighton Town Hall, you can wander through the cells used to hold some of the most damned of criminals. Over 200 years of history are written on the cell walls – literally!

To visit, admission is free BUT you have to book a guided tour in advance. So if you know you want to visit (especially in the busy summer months) make sure you book online in advance!

Wander Queen’s Park (And The Other Brighton Parks)

Address: 25 West Dr, Brighton BN2 0QU, UK

If you haven’t had enough of the parks in Brighton yet, there’s one more you might want to check out.

Queen’s Park was conceived around 1825 and has been a public green space ever since. You’ll find features like a pond, a cafe, loads of green space, and something called the “Pepper Pot”.

What’s the Pepper Pot? You will have to go and check it out! The park is located to the east of the Palace Pier and north of the waterfront a few blocks – but definitely walkable.

While we’re here and talking about green spaces in Brighton for the last time, check out Hove Park and Hove Green (two different “Hove” named green spaces) in the city’s west end.

Hove Park has a cafe and the Hove Park Railway – a tiny train for kids!

Enjoy the Hove Museum of Creativity

Address: 19 New Church Rd, Hove BN3 4AB, UK

Located in the west end of the city, The Hove Museum of Creativity is a place to visit if you want to learn about history and have a group with lots of interests.

Housed in an old villa, this museum has many old toys, old films/film equipment, crafts, art, and more. Turns out, Hove was a big film/cinema producing area back in the day!

Check out Regency Square

Address: Regency Square, Brighton BN1 2FG, UK

If you want to dive into an interesting aspect of Brighton history, then head to Regency Square for a wander about!

Originally built in 1818 as Belle Vue Field, this square (now right across the street from the i360 Tower) took 10 years to complete and was slated as housing for the upper social class.

Over the years, the space transformed due to war and the development of hotels/tourism in Brighton. 

These days, you can wander about the green park and have a look at the iconic townhouses. There’s a war memorial, too.

You might even consider stopping into the Regency Restaurant for seafood or classic pub grub and a drink or stay the night close to the waterfront at beautiful Hotel Una !

Bonus: Take A Day Trip To The Seven Sister Cliffs

Location of Beachy Head: https://goo.gl/maps/gjyTj3aXSwQfHW3M6

If you’ve got some more time to spare while you’re in Brighton or the south coast of the UK, you might want to check out the Seven Sister cliffs!

Just a short drive from Brighton (about an hour), the white chalk cliffs (like the cliffs of Dover) outside of Eastbourne are well worth the trip.

The hiking trails along the cliffs offer stunning views of the English Channel – with peaks like Beachy Head and valleys like the Birling Gap (and its beach) offering visitors places to check out.

As we said, you can drive to the cliffs – to the west of Eastbourne (aim for Cuckmere Haven), you could take the train to Eastbourne from Brighton (but then still have to cab or bus to the cliffs).

Our Tip: Hop on a Seven Sisters cliff tour from Brighton to make the most of your day!

Things to Consider When Visiting Brighton

If you are thinking about heading to Brighton when you’re in the south of England, here are some things that you should consider before you go!

General Information About Brighton

Brighton is located on the southern English coast in the United Kingdom. Officially, it’s Brighton + Hove (which is located to the west of central Brighton).

The city is very close to the English Channel about an hour south of London which makes it a great day trip by train or car.

Because of its geographical location on the south coast, Brighton is one of the sunniest places in the whole of the United Kingdom. 

Brighton was originally founded as a fishing village (makes sense) and was turned into a resort/retreat city in the 18th century because of the beautiful beach and numerous sunshine days. This is still a huge draw for the millions of tourists each year!

Over time, the city has grown to one of the largest in the UK. The city is known for its inclusive communities that attract many young people in the arts + creatives as well as older people enjoying their golden years post-retirement.

Because of this “inclusiveness”, Brighton has a very large LGBTIQ+ population – earning it the moniker of “unofficial gay capital of the UK”!

Best Time to Visit Brighton

Given that we’ve talked about how sunny and beautiful the city is, Brighton is best visited in spring, summer, and fall. 

The wettest month is technically January but winter in the UK sucks everywhere – sorry, UK. (Eric lived in Scotland for a year and – yeah – winter was not a happy time weather-wise!)

If you want to avoid the crazy busy summer tourist/holiday season of July and August, consider visiting Brighton in the “shoulder season” of May/June and then September.

Eric was recently there in May and it was HOT. The beach and pier were packed, people were shopping, and the festivals had already started!

Getting Around in Brighton

Once you get to Brighton, walking around is a really good option since most of the top attractions/waterfront are packed together.

That said, the city is actually pretty spread out and has some pretty good elevation changes. This can make walking to attractions or parks difficult.

You could take the Brighton + Hove bus for some of the trips. You might also consider a taxi if you need a lift.

If you are a tourist looking to explore the city, you have a few options available to you. You can definitely get on the hop-on/hop-off Brighton sightseeing bus .

We know these can be “touristy” but as a way to get around freely AND learn about the city – there usually are few better options!

If you want to be a little more active, you should consider hopping on a bike to explore the city. For this check out this top-rated bike tour around Brighton .

This way you get to learn about the city and you also get around to see the sights and make the most of a few hours!

Where to Stay in Brighton

Since Brighton is such a popular destination to take in the sunshine, sea air, and nightlife, there are LOTS of accommodation options to choose from – from seaside hotels to quaint and quiet cottages nearby.

Check Here for Hotels and Accommodations in Brighton

If you are looking for hotels in Brighton and want to stay right at the seaside, then check out The Grand Hotel Brighton (shown above) or the Queens Hotel & Spa (shown below).

We walked by them and their place across from the beach is absolutely perfect for a seaside getaway.

If you are passing through Brighton for a night and looking for a cheaper (but still nice) place to stay, there are a few hostels as well. You can  check here for hostels in Brighton . 

Specifically, check out the YHA Brighton (shown above) – it’s located right at the waterfront (facing the city).

We had a friend who worked there for a few months and she always spoke highly of it (plus YHA is a trustworthy brand from our experience with them).

Related Articles

If you are planning a larger trip to the south of the UK or are travelling to Europe for the first time , here are a few more helpful posts:

• Top London Attractions   + A London in a Day Itinerary
• Our Experience Visiting Historic Stonehenge
• Things to Check Out in Bristol (Told by a Resident)
• Places to Visit in Cornwall

And there you have it – some of the best things to do in Brighton! The southern English coast is full of awesome things to check out.

You are certainly not limited if you head for Brighton and want to explore more.

We will cover these towns, beaches, hikes, and castles in the south of England in posts coming up real soon! In the meantime, enjoy the sun in Brighton!

As always, Happy Brighton Waddlin’, -L&E

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Best 16 Attractions to See and Cool Things to Do in Brighton, England

Brighton is an oceanside resort city in the East Sussex county of England, UK. The city sits 76 km south of London facing the English Channel. People visit Brighton for its fun vibes and chic lifestyle. There are loads of fun things to do in Brighton city as well as the towns surrounding it.

Although Brighton’s history dates back to the Bronze age, the current version you would see of the city began forming in the Gregorian era. It was a quick getaway resort town for trendy Londoners. Some of the best places to visit in Brighton date back to that era. It still retains many of that period’s qualities in its architecture, art, design, tourist attractions, cuisine, activities, and lifestyle. You will see Gregorian palaces, mansions, historical buildings, old entertainment venues, public parks, and vineyards. These are some of the most beautiful places to see in Brighton owing to their ornate architecture, collection of artworks, and posh interiors.

But alongside, the city has also experienced an ultra-modern revamp in all the same aspects. You will witness a blend of classical and contemporary in all the things to see in Brighton . The old narrow-lane neighborhoods have now become trendy hubs for shopping, dining, social hangouts, art, and nightlife. These areas have become Brighton tourist attractions for all kinds of quirky stuff in fashion, jewelry, home decor, artworks, food, desserts, beverages, and so on. In the same lanes, you will find classic Brighton attractions to enjoy English high tea and Sussex’s sparkling wines. Although, if you truly want to experience the Sussex wines you can take a day’s break from Brighton sightseeing and head on a wine-tasting tour of the surrounding vineyards.

There are quite a few places to go in Brighton for entertainment as well. The famous pier is one of the top entertainment venues in the city with a variety of games, rides, and activities for people of all ages. There are also quite of fun activities in Brighton along the beaches and you also have facilities to just chill and enjoy the ocean.

If you are a football fan, you should definitely check out a game at Brighton & Hove Albion stadium, home to the Premier League Club, especially if they are playing against their long-time rivals Crystal Palace or one of the top 4 premier league clubs. The atmosphere is electrifying.

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Table of Contents

Top 16 Tourist Places to Visit in Brighton in 3 Days (Trip Itinerary)

1. brighton palace pier.

Built-in 1899, this is considered one of the finest piers in the world. It is known for its iconic victorian palace-like structure. It is also popular among locals and tourists alike for a variety of top things to do in Brighton. The pier has food outlets, arcade games, rides, slides, video games, and thrill rides. Plus you get a great view of the ocean. You will need about 2 hours to enjoy the pier when you visit Brighton.

2. The Lanes

This historical neighborhood was a part of the Brighthelmstone settlement. It is one of the best places to visit in Brighton if you really want to experience the city. The entire neighbourhood comprises narrow brick-paved lanes. The area feels like a maze. While exploring these lanes you will find famous stores, funky restaurants, antique stores, tearooms, art galleries, historical pubs, specialty shops, cafes, and more. People can also find several historical things to see in Brighton including flint stone walls, 400-year-old fishermen’s cottages, old buildings, and more. You will need a couple of hours to tour this area.

I suggest you should try a Guided Walking Tour of Brighton to gain more information about the history of The Lanes.

3. Royal Pavilion

This building was first built in 1787 as a seaside house for the Prince of Wales. It is one of the most beautiful places to see in Brighton. It was designed by Henry Holland and draws heavily from Russian, Islamic, and Turkish architecture. The Royal Pavilion is known for its white domes, minarets, themed gardens, arches, and carved designs. The palace has opulent vintage interiors filled with period furniture, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and historical artifacts. You will need about 2 hours from Brighton travel to tour this palace.

I suggest you should book your Ticket to The Royal Pavilion in advance.

4. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

This museum is part of the Royal Pavilion, built in former cavalry barracks. The museum has a variety of different exhibits dedicated to history and culture. World Stories takes you on a tour of different cultures that reside in Brighton. In the Performance Gallery, you can learn about the performing arts of these cultures. You will also see exhibits concerning artworks, artists, fashion, history, social history, and more. It is one of the most interesting Brighton tourist attractions. You will need about 2 hours to tour this museum and gallery.

5. Brighton Toy & Model Museum

This museum exhibits toys dating back 100 years. You will see how people used to play in different eras. The museum has stuffed toys, model trains, cars, aircrafts, lego sets, and more. It is an amazing Brighton attraction to bring out your inner child. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

1. Ditchling Beacon

This chalk hill is popular for its viewpoint and outdoor activities to do in Brighton. Rising to 248 meters above sea level, this is the highest point in East Sussex. People come here for hiking, bicycle trails, horse riding, kite flying, and picnics. You will see grasslands full of wildflowers, especially orchids. You can easily spend a couple of hours on this hill when you visit Brighton.

2. Preston Manor

This manor house dates back to 1738, but its history goes back to the 13th century. The museum in-house will tell you about the various residents of this manor. You will also get insight into the life of an upper-class family during the Edwardian period. It is a major historical highlight of Brighton sightseeing and you will need about an hour to tour this manor.

3. Preston Park

Spread over 63 acres, this is one of the largest parks in England. The park has facilities for several sports including basketball, tennis, softball, football, cricket, bowling, and more. It is also known for other best things to do in Brighton for entertainment and leisure including picnics, nature trails, cycling trails, etc. The park also hosts several events and festivals. You can easily spend an hour or so exploring the activities in this park.

4. North Laine

This colorful neighbourhood is one of the best places to go in Brighton for shopping, dining, entertainment, and nightlife. The area has some unique stores selling all kinds of local items in fashion, beverages, food, and drinks. It is a quirky and trendy hotspot for all the cool things to do in Brighton. You will need about an hour or so to explore this area.

5. British Airways i360

Designed by the creators of the London Eye and standing 138 meters tall, this is one of the highest observation towers in the world. You can amazing views of the city and the South Coast. You can see many Brighton tourist attractions from this tower and learn about them from an app. You will need about an hour for this activity.

I suggest you should get your Ticket to British Airways i360 Tower in advance.

1. SEA LIFE Brighton

This aquarium is housed in an 1872 building and is considered the oldest aquarium in the world. You will see sharks, turtles, octopuses, jellyfish, corals, frogs, seahorses, rays, and more. The aquarium is divided into various zone, each with its own fun activities to do in Brighton. You can tour the pools in a glass bottom boat, explore the underwater world through tunnels, and admire the classic victorian architecture. It is one of the best places to visit in Brighton for families. You will need 2 to 3 hours to tour this place.

I suggest you should book your Ticket to SEA LIFE Brighton in advance.

2. Volk’s Railway

Built-in 1883, this is the oldest electrical railway in Britain. The route only runs for 2 km along the city’s beach. While not exactly among the top historical Brighton attractions, it is still a fun activity to enjoy on your way to the beach. You only need 30 to 45 minutes to ride this railway.

3. Booth Museum of Natural History

This museum opened in 1874 with the taxidermy birds collection of Edward Thomas Booth. Not it is a natural history museum that showcases 525,000+ insects, 30,000+ plants, 50,000+ minerals, and more. The museum has skeletons of whales, primates, rhinoceros, dodo bird, and other animals. It also has fossils of dinosaurs discovered in Sussex. You will need about an hour from Brighton travel to tour this museum.

4. Brighton Zipline Experience

Brighton beach has the longest and tallest zipline on the south coast of England. You will start from the tower and zoom towards the beach with the ocean on one side and the city on the other. It is one of the most fun things to do in Brighton and you only need 20 to 30 minutes for this experience. The tower has dual ziplines, so you can even race with your friends, family, or significant others.

I suggest you should get your Ticket for Brighton Zipline Experience in advance.

5. Brighton Beaches

Speaking of beaches, you should head out to the beaches in Brighton for some fun activities. You can come here to just stare at the ocean, relax on the sandy coast, enjoy bicycle tracks, and more. Some of the most popular beaches include Brighton Beach, Ovingdean Beach, Brighton West Beach, Rottingdean Beach, Saltdean Beach, and Hove Beach. These are the best places to go in Brighton for leisure, dining, shopping, and nightlife as well. You can easily spend a couple of hours chilling at any of the beaches when you visit Brighton.

6. Sussex Vineyards

Sussex is well known for its sparkling wines. The region is home to several vineyards. You can take a day from Brighton sightseeing of wine tasting, dining, and exploring how these drinks are made.

I suggest you should book a Tour of Sussex Vineyards on an Iconic Vintage London Bus .

If you are looking for more interesting things to see in Brighton, check out the sections below. We have compiled an exhaustive list of attractions and activities that you can enjoy in the city and around it.

Things to do in brighton, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in brighton.

• Royal Pavilion
• Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
• Brighton Toy and Model Museum
• Volk’s Electric Railway
• Booth Museum of Natural History
• Preston Manor
• Phoenix Art Space
• St. Peters Church
• Fabrica Contemporary Art Space
• Brighton Fishing Museum
• Church of St. Bartholomew
• Old Police Cells Museum
• Jubilee Clock Tower
• Art 5 Gallery
• The Regency Town House
• Lewes Castle & Museum
• Anna’s Museum
• Monk’s House
• Brighton Chhatri
• The Angel of Peace
• Hove Museum of Creativity
• Newhaven Fort
• Anne of Cleves House
• West Blatchington Windmill
• Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft
• Lewes Priory
• The Roman Catholic Diocese of Arundel & Brighton
• Friends of Shoreham Fort
• Jack & Hill Windmills
• Culture 24 Museum
• Marlipins Museum

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Brighton

• Devil’s Dyke Valley
• Stanmer Nature Park Reserve
• Wild Park Local Nature Reserve
• Whitehawk Hill Local Nature Reserve
• Saddlecombe Farm and Newtimber Hill
• Ditchlington Beacon Grassland
• Mount Caburn
• Truleigh Hill
• South Down National Park

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Brighton

• Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club
• Brighton i360
• Preston Park
• Brighton Palace Pier
• Sea Life Aquarium
• Brighton Dome
• Queen’s Park
• Brighton Racecourse
• Grosvenor Casino
• Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf
• Victoria Gardens
• St. Ann’s Well Gardens
• Blakers Park
• Withdean Park
• Dyke Road Park
• Yellowave Beach Sports Venue
• East Brighton Park
• Old Steine Gardens
• One Garden Brighton
• Valley Gardens
• Rendezvous Casino
• Genting Casino
• Washbrooks Family Farm
• Sky High Trampoline Park
• Southover Grange Gardens
• Centenary Park
• Plumpton Racecourse
• Ridgeview Wine Estate
• Albourne Estate
• Kinsbrook Vineyard
• Bluebell Vineyard
• Upperton Vineyard
• Trotton Estate
• Court Gardens Farm
• Wildwood Vineyard
• Black Dog Hill Vineyard
• Drusillas Park

Shopping in Brighton

• Brighton Open Market
• North Laine
• Brighton Marina
• Enter Gallery
• Churchill Square Shopping Centre
• Open Market
• Kemptown Market
• Seven Dials

Beaches in Brighton

• Brighton Beach
• Brighton West Pier
• Ovingdean Beach
• Brighton West Beach
• Rottingdean Beach
• Saltdean Beach
• London Road Viaduct
• Shoreham Beach
• Beachy Head Cliff
• Seven Sisters Cliff

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Brighton

• Bicycle trails
• Paddleboarding
• Kitesurfing

Sightseeing in Brighton

• Upside Down Houses
• Brighton Beach Bandstand
• Regency Square
• Brighton Beach Huts
• Undercliff Walk
• Kings Road Arches
• Foredown Tower

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Brighton

• Pavilion Gardens Cafe
• The Black Lion
• Metrodeco Cafe
• The Mesmerist
• Boho Gelato
• The Cricketers
• Terre a Terre
• Ohso Social Beach bar
• The Painting Pottery Cafe
• That Little Tea Shop
• Browns Brighton
• Ten Green Bottles
• Metropole Bar
• Brass Monkey Ice Cream
• Iydea Vegetarian Kitchen
• The World Famous Pump Room
• Lost in the Lanes
• Rockwater Hove
• Petit Pois Restaurant
• Tinto Taperia
• The Connaught Pub
• Las Iguanas
• Indian Summer
• Artbox Cafe
• Fourth and Church

Where to Stay in Brighton?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Brighton. You can check the below-listed hotels for your perfect stay in Brighton.

Luxurious Hotels

• Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront
• Harbour Hotel Brighton
• Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel
• Artist Residence Brighton
• Hotel du Vin Brighton
• Leonardo Hotel Brighton
• Queens Hotel
• The Grand Brighton
• Malmaison Brighton
• The Twenty One

Mid-Range Hotels

• Drakes Hotel Brighton
• The Charm – Brighton Boutique Hotel
• Hotel Pelirocco
• A Room With A View
• Blanch House
• Premier Inn Brighton City Centre (North Street) hotel
• Cavalaire Guest House
• Ibis Brighton City Centre Station
• The White House

Budget Hotels

• Strawberry Fields
• New Steine Hotel
• Travelodge Brighton
• Legends Hotel
• Ei8ht Brighton Apartments
• Sea Spray Boutique Hotel
• The Lanes Hotel
• Westbourne Hotel & Spa
• Beach Hotel
• YHA Brighton

Custom Tours Package in Brighton

How to reach brighton.

You can reach Brighton through Shoreham Airport, also called Brighton City Airport. It sits just 8 km away from Brighton. It is the oldest airport in the UK and the oldest purpose-built commercial airport in the world that is still operational. As London is not too far from the city, you can also use Heathrow and Gatwick Airports to reach Brighton. These airports are connected to several cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. You can get buses and cabs to get to the city from the airport

England has a well-developed train network. You can get direct trains to visit Brighton from several cities in the UK. It falls on railway routes Southern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express, and Great Western Railway. These routes connect Brighton with London, Bedford, Leicester, Gatwick, Cambridge, and several other cities in England.

You can also get buses from many cities in the country to reach Brighton. Some of the most popular bus services for Brighton travel include National Express, Stagecoach, and Brighton & Hove Buses.

If you are planning to reach Brighton by car, you should head south on route A23. If you are traveling along the southern coast, you can use route A27.

The closest port to visit Brighton is Newhaven. You can get ferries to get here from Dieppe in France

Image Reference

• Brighton Palace Pier – Will Eames / PixaBay
• The Lanes – Terekhova / Flickr
• Royal Pavilion – Gary Stearman / PixaBay
• Brighton Museum & Art Gallery – Allie_Caulfield / Flickr
• Brighton Toy and Model Museum – Marko Mrdjenovič / Flickr
• Ditchling Beacon – grassrootsgroundswell / Flickr
• Preston Manor – Martin Robson / Flickr
• Preston Park – Gary Stearman / PixaBay
• North Laine – Simon / Flickr
• British Airways i360 – Matt Kieffer / Flickr
• SEA LIFE Brighton – Hassocks5489 / Wikimedia Commons
• Volk’s Railway – R~P~M / Flickr
• Booth Museum of Natural History – Hassocks5489 / Wikimedia Commons
• Brighton Zipline Experience – C.Suthorn / Wikimedia Commons
• Brighton Beaches – Martina Bäcker / PixaBay
• Sussex Vineyards – Steve Gardner / Flickr
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Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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